Vote ‘yes’ for a responsible East Meadow school budget
Despite tough times on all levels, the East Meadow School District has put forth a responsible budget proposal that maintains quality education for students while supporting staff and keeping the taxpayers in mind. The increase in spending is a paltry 1.7 percent, and the rise in the tax levy is expected to be about 1.3 percent. Both figures are believed to be record lows.
Once again, the district is offering a budget that preserves all programs and maintains jobs. A superb administrative staff, led by Superintendent Louis DeAngelo, used some creative measures, including the incorporation of reserve funds, to make up for reductions in state aid and rising utility costs and unfunded mandates.
The district will continue offering its outstanding slate of programs, including the Global Business Academy at East Meadow High School, the robotics program at Clarke, and its successful athletic teams and musical groups.
A failed budget would be detrimental for a community that values its educational and extracurricular programs.
Contract negotiations took the high road this year, as teachers and administrators agreed to new deals about four months before their current contracts expired. All sides have worked together to compromise for the betterment of everyone. As the district works through these hard times, we are confident that officials will keeping in mind the many residents who have their own struggles to deal with.
Cast your “yes” vote for the school budget on Tuesday.
