Lynbrook spending plan deserves approval

The Lynbrook School District has crafted a 2015-16 budget that comes in below the state’s approximate 2 percent tax cap, at 1.67 percent. We urge voters to say “yes” to this fiscally responsible spending plan, and to its proposed propositions 2, 3 and 4, on Tuesday.

The $79.4 million budget is 2.78 percent larger than the current spending plan, and includes several new initiatives and program upgrades. A shared boys’ swim team with Rockville Centre will be introduced — the district’s athletics program currently has only a girls’ team — and funds will be allocated for the purchase of new math books and software. The budget will also continue science innovations that were introduced this year, including the use of science lab kits that prepare students for classes that tie in with the district’s emphasis on science, technology, engineering, the arts and math.

There will be funding to expand the district’s “One to World” tablet initiative for seventh-graders, as well as the senior internship program that was introduced last year, offering students on-the-job experiences through local school-business partnerships.

Residents will also be asked to OK the use of the district’s reserve funds, which would have no impact on the budget or tax levy.

If approved, Proposition 2 would appropriate $500,000 from the Technology Replacement Fund to replace classroom projectors, computers and printers and upgrade instructional technology.

Proposition 3 would earmark $1.7 million from the Renovation and Improvement of Facilities Fund to complete renovations, including window replacements at the administration building and Kindergarten Center, a ceiling and lighting project at the high school, basketball renovations at South Middle School, bathroom renovations at South and Marion Street Elementary School, and playground replacement at West End Elementary.

Proposition 4 would establish a Building Renovation Improvement, Upgrade and Equipment Fund to pay for a variety of projects. Funding would be transferred from the district’s general fund each year.

Paskoff, Strife, Deninno for school board

There are five candidates vying for three seats on the Lynbrook Board of Education.