This is an unconventional year in so many ways, including the conduct of the annual budget vote and election. A few days ago, absentee ballots were mailed to all qualified voters of the school district, as per the Governor's executive order. To be counted in the vote, your ballot must be received by the district no later than 5:00pm on Tuesday, June 9, 2020. Be sure to sign where indicated.
In response to the current situation, the budget originally prepared by the administration has been reduced by nearly $1 million in mostly non-instructional expenses. In addition, the budget includes the purchase of materials, equipment and supplies that will be needed to operate a remote, face-to-face or hybrid school opening in the fall, as necessary. It also addresses potential revenue shortfalls in 2020-21. The budget:
Proposes a spending increase of 1.89 percent
Proposes a tax levy increase of 1.83 percent (well below the allowable increase of 3.58 percent)
Maintains current instructional programs & district initiatives
One-to-one computer device for ALL students grades K-12
Upgrading audio and video equipment for classrooms
District-wide personal protective equipment, cleaning supplies, sanitizers, etc.
Teacher assistants on the elementary buses in order to provide additional supervision
Certified math specialists at the elementary level
New course offerings including materials and supplies
Protective social distancing furniture
No-touch filtering water fountains
Professional Development/curriculum writing via remote connection
Google Classroom for standardizing instructional resources and organizing assignments
Enhanced Zoom licenses for all staff in order to deliver online instruction more conveniently and securely
New building security enhancements including video surveillance and additional card access
As always, I want to thank the entire Roslyn community for its continued support, not only during our annual budget process, but throughout the course of these last few difficult months. Please be sure to return your ballots before Tuesday, June 9 at 5:00pm.
