Hewlett-Woodmere: Budget and trustees

Approve the Hewlett-Woodmere budget

The proposed 2014-15 Hewlett-Woodmere School District budget totals just under $112.1 million, includes a 2.1 percent tax levy increase — the state’s cap for the district — and is 2.27 percent larger than the current spending plan. It not only includes funding to keep the district moving forward, but also pays attention to smaller projects such as upgrading furniture in three schools.

Clearly, the district has been doing things right in recent years: The science research program at the high school has produced back-to-back grand prize winners in the Siemens Competition for Math, Science & Technology. More than two-thirds of the class of 2013 earned Advanced Regents diplomas.

Dr. Peter Weber, the district’s assistant superintendent for business, is considered by his peers to be one of the best in his field. He is doing a good job of keeping the district on solid fiscal footing during these difficult economic times. Just one example of the district’s smart budgeting is the fact that programs like the Discovery lunchtime lab and community education services for adults have been maintained in next year’s spending plan.

We encourage voters to keep the good things coming in Hewlett-Woodmere by approving the budget on Tuesday.

McInnes and May for trustee

There are two seats up on the Hewlett-Woodmere Board of Education, and four candidates competing for them. The two incumbents, Scott McInnes and Cheryl May, both work hard to master the issues and, with children of their own who attend district schools, are very involved in school events.

Fred Usherson, a professional educator in New York City who also has two children in district schools and is running for the board for the fourth time, has made useful suggestions to the district, recommending that students have access to online databases and a robotics program. But he isn’t often seen at district activities, and just referring people to a website is not what a civic leader does.

Jacob Shafran, an optometrist and a first-time candidate, needs to be more engaged with the district to become a viable candidate.

We endorse McInnes and May for re-election.

Approve H-W Library budget