Schools

West Islip Superintendent Thanks Residents for Passing School Budget

"West Islip community should recognize and applaud the willingness of all to come together to continue to support quality education," writes Supt. Rick Simon.

West Islip school district Superintendent Rick Simon thanked residents for approving the district's 2012-13 budget in a letter posted on the district's website Wednesday.

"Congratulations and thank you to the West Islip community on the passage of the 2012- 2013 budget and to Steve Gellar and Mike Zotto on their reelection to the Board of Education," he said in the statement.

Sixty-five percent of voter's cast their ballots in favor of the $110.8 million spending plan, which included the closure of two elementary schools and elimination of 38 staff members. However, overall turnout was down, as roughly 400 less voters came out Tuesday than last year.

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"This was a very new and difficult budget process given the tax levy cap law and the unique situation in West Islip that resulted in the closing of two elementary schools and the redistricting of enrollment boundaries," Simon said. "Our Board of Education had to make some very painful and controversial decisions and I believe we should all appreciate how hard they worked on making the best decisions for all students."

Simon also addressed the challenges that lay ahead for the district.

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"As we move forward to tackle the many challenges that await us, I am energized by a community that truly cares about education," he said. "We must continue to work together to make West Islip the best possible educational experience for all students and staff."


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