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CUFSD BOE MEETING 03/04/2026

CUFSD BOE MEETING 03/04/2026

CUFSD TV

45:38

Overview

This video documents the Chester Union Free School District Board of Education meeting held on March 4, 2026. The meeting included a review of progress towards district goals at Chester Elementary School (CES), highlighting achievements in PBIS, DEI initiatives, and academic programs. Updates were also provided on community partnerships, including visits from a local nurse and the Master Gardeners. Chester Academy reported on its senior trip, Odyssey of the Mind team, and the upcoming production of "The Little Mermaid." A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the presentation of the 2026-2027 budget proposal, outlining priorities in academic excellence, college and career pathways, and infrastructure optimization. Challenges such as New York State's tax levy limits and rising costs were discussed, alongside enrollment and staffing projections. The meeting also featured updates from board members and student representatives on various school activities, upcoming events, and community service initiatives, concluding with the adoption of the consent agenda and adjournment.

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Chapters

  • •Pledge of Allegiance recited.
  • •Agenda for the meeting adopted.
  • •Minutes from the February 18th, 2026 board meeting approved.
  • •CES is progressing towards district goals, with a focus on PBIS assemblies, diversity and inclusion events, and academic programs like the Amplify Science pilot.
  • •February saw a successful PBIS assembly with student awards and a dance party, and planning for a multicultural evening coinciding with an art show.
  • •Second-quarter report cards were completed, and honor roll students will be announced.
  • •Community partnerships included a visit from an ICU nurse to a second-grade class and support from Master Gardeners for the fifth-grade pollinator garden.
  • •Senior trip to Florida is planned, with a mandatory meeting held for parents and seniors.
  • •The Odyssey of the Mind team achieved third place in a competition.
  • •The production of "The Little Mermaid" will feature 135 students and has scheduled performances.
  • •Reported low infraction rates regarding cell phone policy adherence.
  • •Recognized top academic performers and wrestlers, including a state champion.
  • •CES winter concert featured the fourth and fifth-grade band and choir.
  • •CES broadcast team presented monthly broadcasts to the board.
  • •The Academy's drum line performed, showcasing student talent and creativity.
  • •Music department highlights included representation at all-county levels, participation in solo ensemble festivals, and upcoming performances in a parade and on Broadway.
  • •The budget priorities are strengthening academic excellence, advancing college and career pathways, and optimizing infrastructure for safety and sustainability.
  • •Investments include data-driven instruction, professional development, special education services, and extracurricular activities.
  • •College and career readiness is supported through internship programs, partnerships with universities, and technology-focused experiences.
  • •Infrastructure improvements focus on safety, security, technology upgrades, and energy efficiency.
  • •Enrollment is projected to increase slightly at CES and remain steady at Chester Academy, with staffing maintained.
  • •Challenges include New York State's tax levy limits (2% or CPI), compounding inflation, and rising costs for personnel and programs.
  • •The 'hold harmless' provision ensures no less foundation aid than the prior year, but a 1% increase is insufficient to cover rising costs.
  • •The maximum allowable tax levy is $22.1 million, a 3.83% increase, influenced by capital levy exclusions.
  • •Projected total revenue is $39.7 million, with property taxes as the largest source (56%) and state aid at 37%.
  • •Updates included thanks to highway and grounds teams for snow removal, and information on the upcoming 2026-2027 student calendar.
  • •The February newsletter will be shared, highlighting district news.
  • •Board petitions are available for a three-year term position, with a deadline of April 20th.
  • •Board members attended the Niscus Winter Institute and lobby day in Albany.
  • •Daylight Savings Time begins on Sunday.
  • •Senior trip to Orlando, Florida, is scheduled from March 12th to 16th.
  • •High school band will attend "The Great Gatsby" on Broadway and the St. Patrick's Day parade.
  • •Tickets for "The Little Mermaid" are on sale, with tiered pricing and an option for door purchase.
  • •Student council and youth and government meetings are scheduled to discuss fundraisers and county service day.
  • •NHS is offering volunteer opportunities at the Hudson Valley SPCA.
  • •Consent agenda items 5.1 through 5.9 were adopted.
  • •Second public comment period held with no attendees.
  • •Motion for adjournment was made and approved.
  • •The next board of education meeting is scheduled for March 18th in the Chester Academy cafeteria.

Key Takeaways

  1. 1Chester Union Free School District is actively pursuing its district goals across elementary and academy levels, focusing on student engagement, academic achievement, and community involvement.
  2. 2The 2026-2027 budget proposal prioritizes academic excellence, college and career readiness, and safe, sustainable infrastructure, despite facing financial challenges from state funding limitations and inflation.
  3. 3Community partnerships and student-led initiatives, such as the pollinator garden, nurse visits, and student broadcasts, are integral to the educational experience.
  4. 4The district is committed to preparing students for future success through diverse programs, including internships, college-level courses, and technology-focused learning.
  5. 5Student participation in arts, music, and extracurricular activities, like the drum line and the production of "The Little Mermaid," is robust and celebrated.
  6. 6The school board is actively seeking community input and participation, particularly for upcoming board member elections and budget discussions.
  7. 7Student-led community service and volunteer efforts demonstrate a strong sense of civic responsibility within the student body.
  8. 8The district is investing in technology upgrades and infrastructure improvements to enhance safety, security, and the overall learning environment.
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