At its Jan. 19 meeting, the Elmont Board of Education voted to place before the district's residents a bond referendum in the amount of $12 million, 60 percent of which will be funded through state aid. The bond vote, scheduled to take place on Thursday, March 18, addresses the need for additional classroom space to serve a student population that has grown by more than 1,200 students over the past 12 years.

Superintendent of schools, Dr. Maria Palandra, emphasized that the 20 year bond is the most fiscally responsible solution to the district's space needs. The bond will allow the district to make necessary building additions and will cost the average homeowner $25 per year. "The board of education and the administration have exhausted every other possible solution to the lack of sufficient classroom space, including the purchase or leasing of the ATS building. We strongly believe that quality facilities are necessary in order for all students to take full advantage of Elmont's educational programs."

The bond will fund the addition of 40 general education classrooms, as well as the pressing need for core facilities and permanent classroom space for art, music, pre-school and special education, district-wide. Of special concern is the removal of the old portable classrooms at the Gotham Avenue School.

Several public hearings regarding the bond referendum will be held over the next few weeks, with the first one scheduled for Monday, Feb. 1, at 8 p.m. at the Dutch Broadway School. Administrators will be on hand to make a detailed presentation and to answer any questions relating to the proposed bond. Information regarding the bond will also be mailed to all district residents in advance of the vote. Community groups who wish to schedule a special presentation for their membership should call the superintendent's office at 326-5500, extension 31, as soon as possible.

Residents who need to register may do so on any school day during school hours until March 11. A special evening session for registration will be held Thursday, March 11 at Elmont Road School from 4 to 9 p.m.

Voting will take place on Thursday, March 18 between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. at all seven school buildings.