Long Beach Students showcase new program at BOE meeting

The Long Beach Board of Education met for its rescheduled meeting Jan. 16, initially planned for Jan. 9 but delayed due to inclement weather.

The spotlight of the meeting centered on the high school’s computer science programs. In addition to launching AP Computer Science Principles the past year, the school is actively pursuing state accreditation for its innovative CTE sequence in computer science.

“We’re also introducing and hoping to get accreditation from the state for a new CTE sequence for computer science that includes AP Computer Science, and IB Computer Science,” Janna Ostroff, assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction, said.

Enrolled students in the high school’s latest course showcased their ongoing projects, emphasizing the program’s aim to help you understand computer science principles and how you can use them in real-life situations.

One student presented a program addressing the challenges posed by a new attendance policy, streamlining the process of tracking absences across different classes. Another showcased a simulation program related to surfing conditions, infusing an element of fun into coding.

The students collectively emphasized the approach of the computer science programs, covering not only programming but also hardware, and software, and integrating technology into everyday life.

In preparation for the fiscal year 2025, administrators discussed the rollover budget and benefits projection, aiming to identify needs and enhance efficiency.

The projected budget of approximately $3.8 million over the current year’s budget raised considerations on covering the increase through the tax levy. Key factors included contractual salary increases, health insurance, and pension contributions.

Equipment codes remained level, while BOCES and supplies experienced a 2 and 3 percent increase, respectively. Rises in retirement system costs were attributed to staff projections and contribution rate increases.

Health insurance premiums, debt service variations, and upcoming presentations on central support functions, elementary and secondary programs, and special education, ending in the April budget adotion, were also highlighted.

In the upcoming months, several key dates are scheduled for important discussions and decisions. Jan. 23, the focus will be on central support functions. This will be followed by transportation, facilities, and technology functions on Feb. 6.

The elementary program meeting is on Feb. 20, the secondary program on March 12, and the special education program on March 26.

As the budgetary process unfolds, a crucial budget hearing is set for May 14, with the culmination being the budget/bond vote and board election on May 21.