Dear Parents & Families,
I hope this communication finds you well. Had things not changed in light of COVID-19, school districts across New York State would be holding their annual budget votes and school board elections today. An Executive Order by Governor Cuomo altered not only the vote date, but the manner in which it will be conducted. The budget vote and board elections will now be held on June 9, 2020, and be conducted exclusively by absentee ballot. Qualified voters, identified by Albany County Board of elections, will receive, via US mail, a ballot and prepaid return envelope. Qualified voters are defined as US Citizens, 18 years of age or older, who have lived in the district for 30 days.
We encourage members of our community to make an informed decision, particularly given the unique circumstances and implications surrounding the 2020-21 budget. At the May 11 Board of Education Meeting the board adopted a budget of $9,824,370, for voter consideration. The budget as adopted maintains current opportunities and programs, complies with all mandates, and addresses board goals around the social–emotional well–being of our students. To learn more about the development of the budget and what is included, you are encouraged to review the budget development information on the Budget & Taxes page. You are also encouraged to attend the Budget Hearing scheduled for Tuesday, June 2 at 5:30 PM. This meeting will be streamed live, and provide members of the community the opportunity to comment and ask questions. Lastly, we encourage you as a member of the school community, invested in the future of our school and students, to exercise your right to vote.
Should you have particular questions or wish to discuss the development of the budget, do not hesitate to reach out via phone or email.
Sincerely,
Dr. Maureen A. Long
Superintendent of Schools
mlong@menands.org
(518)465-4561 ext. 101