District Notebook: A Thankful Community and Terrific Kids

The East Meadow Board of Education held the last general communications meeting of the school year at the . Here is a summary of some of the issues discussed during the meeting:

District Thanks Community for Budget Vote

Tuesday’s approved budget was a source of jubilation and congratulatory remarks for members of the district’s administration, board of education and community on Thursday evening.

“I wish to express my appreciation to the East Meadow School District community for its overwhelming support at the polls last Tuesday,” Superintendent Louis DeAngelo said. “It continues to be an honor to be part of a community which faithfully supports its schools. We assure you that we will work diligently to be sure that we continue to be worthy of the trust which you have placed in us.”

Board of Education President Brian O’Flaherty praised DeAngelo and the district leadership for building an “excellent budget during these very difficult financial times.” He continued by saying that one of the most important tasks they have done was delivering this budget, which provides quality education to the children and is affordable for the local taxpayers.

The levy of 1.62 percent will be sent to the Nassau County Assessor's Office in August, according to trustee Joseph Parisi's business and finance report. “The school district will not receive more tax revenue than the official levy," he added.

Congratulations were also offered to Corey Fanelli and Joseph Danenza on winning their three-year seats on the board.

“Thank you for your vote of confidence and I look forward to serving the next three years as a member of this board,” Fanelli said.

Spring Terrific Kids Named

The district awarded “Terrific Kid” recognitions to a few dozen  and students for the months of March, April, May and June. The “Terrific Kids” program is sponsored by the local East Meadow Kiwanis organization and strives to honor children in a positive light.

“Students who are nominated to receive Terrific Kids awards are students who are to be recognized by their positive attitude, good character and responsible citizenship,” DeAngelo said. “If anything, they are model citizens in our schools.”

Clarke Principal Stacy Breslin, Assistant Superintendent for Personnel and Administration Anthony Russo and Board of Education President Brian O’Flaherty, who is also the Kiwanis treasurer, presented the awards to students. Two to three students were chosen from each grade every month due to their excellent attitude and community awareness at their respective school.

Hiring Process to Begin for Next School Year

The district’s Office of Human Resources has begun to be in contact with school principals throughout East Meadow to figure out the personnel needs for the next school year. According to the monthly personnel report, they are projecting enrollment for the 2011-2012 year at 7,215.

"Upon ascertainment of our staffing needs, the district canvasses and sets up an interview process designed to bring quality staff – administrative, teaching and non-professional – into our East Meadow School District,” said trustee Corey Fanelli during his delivery of the personnel report.