The budget plan for the 2008-2009 school year has been proposed to the Syosset School District Board of Education and community. "The spending increase of 6.35 percent is one of the lowest increases in the past ten years," said Dr. Carole G. Hankin. "Everything that is needed to continue to provide the best education we can to our students, including our fine academic programs, is part of the proposed budget. This gives students the opportunity to explore their interests and prepare fully for their future." The proposed 2008-2009 budget is $176,400,840.

"We are committed to maintaining our District as a model of excellence," said Hankin. He stated that the Syosset School District values the importance of providing the best educational materials and tools to help students achieve their maximum potential and personal life goals. With an on-time graduation rate of more than 99 percent of students, Syosset High School has a record of which the district is very proud. This year, as has been true for many years, Syosset students have been accepted at the most prestigious and competitive colleges and universities in the nation. To continue to facilitate these distinctions, the 2008-2009 budget guarantees the continuation of all current academic and co-curricular programs. Among these are athletics, clubs, full-day kindergarten, summer school, tutors and use of district facilities, including fields and gymnasiums. Syosset students have extraordinary opportunities to learn about music, art and culture by studying with teachers and working professionals, earning the district recognition as having the No. 1 Art Education Program in the nation.

Dr. Hankin states that providing an exceptional education in a fiscally responsible manner is always a top priority of the Syosset School District. Ninety percent of the budget is contractual obligations or costs not controlled by the district such as insurance and utilities. The 2008-2009 budget includes a number of cost-saving measures, including reduced borrowing rates due to Moody's rating, implementation of energy efficient measures and text books purchases through a countywide consortium. The 2008-2009 budget ensures that students will continue to be given the opportunity to do their best and pursue their individual interests, Hankin stated.