Elmont Board of Education Adopts Budget

The Elmont School District Board of Education has had a tough time this year putting together a proposed budget for the 2003-2004 school year that is fiscally responsible yet doesn't compromise the quality of education children are receiving.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Maria Palandra and the board of education made a conscious effort not to cut any of the district's programs. The only other option is to raise the amount of revenues the district receives in order to pay for rising costs such as in increase in pension costs, Social Security costs, medical insurance and debt service. Enrollment has also increased by 4.9 percent. The consumer price index has increased by 1.6 percent and the district plans on spending $162,000 for the installation of computer labs in all the schools.

On Tuesday, April 15, the board of education adopted a budget for the 2003-2004 school year. The budget amounts to $50,523,292, an increase of 7.9 percent over last year's $46,829,525. The total estimated school tax levy amounts to $36,693,197, up 11.26 percent from last year's $32,979,585.

The board hopes to continue to get the community's support this year. Last year, voters approved the budget by a 1,066 to 741 margin. Residents will vote on the budget on May 20.

Three seats on the board open

This year, residents will vote to fill three seats on the board of education. The one belonging to Lillian Carillo, who had resigned, will be filled for one year. As of Thursday, only Lorraine Ferrigno picked up petitions to run. The other seats are three year terms. One belongs to incumbent Joy Madera, who announced her intention to run for re-election. She will be challenged by Patrick Nicolosi. The other seat belongs to incumbent Ken Williams, who will also run for re-election. He will be challenged by Sam Glazer. Petitions must be in by Monday, April 21. The vote is on May 20.

Several Educators Granted Tenure

Twenty three educators who were granted tenure include Amy Buchanan, principal of the Alden Terrace School.

Five Classrooms Back at Sewanhaka

Five classrooms are back in use at Sewanhaka High School after the roof collapsed in the science wing. There are still eight more that need to be repaired. Sewanhaka Central High School District board member Deanna Doreson said the district expects the entire project to cost $500,000.