With the East Meadow school budget vote and board of educations election less than a week away, the community is preparing to head to the polls. Voters will weigh in on a proposed $286.8 million budget, while Board President Jessica Ricco-Simeone and Trustee David Carl are both seeking re-election unopposed.
Ricco-Simeone is a lifelong resident of Salisbury and a longtime educator in the Westbury School District. She resides in the community with her husband and two children. Carl, a longtime resident of East Meadow, resides in the community with his wife and children. An attorney, he is the bureau chief, deputy county attorney, for the social services legal bureau in Nassau County.
During her first election campaign, Ricco-Simeone emphasized the importance of collaboration between students, parents, teachers and community groups. Carl emphasized improving management, transparency and financial accountability within the district. He advocated for stronger communication between the board and the community, including expanded opportunities for public participation.
Both Ricco-Simeone and Carl were elected to the board in 2023. As their first full-term comes to an end, Ricco-Simeone said that serving on the board has been one of the greatest honors. A graduate of the East Meadow School District, she is pleased with all the board has accomplished.
“My work here is not finished,” she said, “and I look forward to dedicating my time to this district for another three years.”
During the past three years, the Ricco-Simeone said they have focused on expanding opportunities for students while strengthening district leadership, finances and community engagement. Among the initiatives highlighted were the launch of new career-focused educational pathways, including Medical Assisting programs, and the hiring of new principals and assistant principals who have quickly become prominent leaders within the schools.
She also pointed to continued involvement in student and community life, including attending athletic competitions, supporting district theater and music productions, and helping establish the district’s “Flags for Freedom” tradition. Fiscal responsibility was another major focus, with the president emphasizing efforts to maintain budget stability for taxpayers alongside the hiring of a new assistant superintendent of finance.
Looking ahead, Ricco-Simeone said the district plans to focus on projects tied to the recently approved bond, including building improvements, expanded school security measures and upgrades to athletic facilities.
Future plans also include the development of a new Clarke Café, which is intended to provide students with life-skills training opportunities while creating a welcoming gathering space on campus.
“I have worked collaboratively to support students, families, faculty, and staff while helping lead the district through meaningful growth and progress,” she said. “As an educator, parent and community member, my commitment to educational excellence, community engagement, and student opportunity has remained at the forefront of every decision.”
Polls are open on May 19 from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Taxpayers are instructed to vote at their local elementary school. For more on the budget and board members, visit EMUFSD.us.
