RSS 2.0 FeedDecember 23, 2010, Wantagh Seaford Citizen
Wantagh schools’ ‘State of the District’ report
Dr. Begley reports on the state of the schools.
Citing impressive advances in technology, numerous facilities improvements and a roster of student achievements, Wantagh Schools Superintendent Dr. Lydia Begley presented the “State of the District” report at the December 9 school board meeting.
“Not just a report card,” the report, according to Dr. Begley, was a “more comprehensive look” at the district's five schools and its 3,507 students.
The Wantagh district’s student population, as of the 2008-09 school year, was 95% white, 2% Asian, 3% Hispanic or Latino and 0% black or African-American. In 2010-11, 1.4% are eligible for free lunch, .8% for reduced-price lunch and .5% are “limited English proficient.”
Total student enrollment decreased by 134, or 3.68%, between the current and previous academic years. During the past decade, enrollment peaked in 2005 and has declined every year thereafter.
Highlights in curriculum, technology
Dr. Begley focused on curriculum highlights, which include new high school advanced placement (AP) courses, a media graphic arts lab at the high school, a new writers’ workshop model for grades one and two, and labs in algebra and trigonometry for the district’s struggling learners.
Other notable highlights are the introduction of instructional technology at every level, including computers; SMART Boards, tables and slates; Apple iPads and Netbooks. New technology has also brought about infrastructure upgrades to switches, routers, wireless access points and servers.
Money matters
As to the district’s financial state, Dr. Begley reported that with the current operating budget of $69,182,285, 77% is spent on instruction, 13% on capital or buildings, and 10% on administration.
Total revenue consists of $2,135,000 in the fund balance and reserves, $14,857,280 in state aid (approximately 21% of revenue), $955,812 in other revenue (student fees, interest, rental of property, gifts and donations) and $51,234,193 in tax levy funds.
Dr. Begley praised the county legislators for their assistance in providing unanticipated revenue to support special programs, specifically $75,000 in grants toward technology, exterior doors, lockers and playground equipment at the various buildings. The district is equally grateful to those donors who contribute generous gifts throughout the year.
County Legislator David Denenberg, who was present at the meeting, was thanked for his efforts in securing funding. Mr. Denenberg called the Wantagh district “second to none. It’s the best bang for your buck,” he said. “Keep up the great work!”
An excellent report card
Wantagh’s most recent New York State Report Card for 2009-10 data indicates that it is a district “in good standing.” Ninety-eight percent of Wantagh students attend college, and this year, several students have signed letters of intent to attend Ivy League schools.
Additionally, the district prides itself on its many successful partnerships with parents, community groups, outside agencies such as colleges, universities and museums. Improvements in communications through Connect-Ed universal outreach to parents, and several communications vehicles help to spread the word about what’s happening in Wantagh.
Recent facilities enhancements have included new lockers at the middle and high schools, computer lab upgrades at the elementary schools, a middle school lobby “facelift,” and two new playgrounds and a fitness trail at Wantagh Elementary (Beech Street) School.
Immediate goals, real concerns
The district’s immediate goals include a comprehensive review of all district policies, a five-year building survey for capital planning, negotiation with bargaining units, and conducting an enrollment study for future planning.
Dr. Begley stated that for all its successes, the district also faces concerns: increased costs to school districts such as health insurance and retirement benefit contributions, the loss of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding at the end of the 2011 school year, a potential tax cap with implications on future budgets and programs, and an impending sewage and water tax for all Nassau County districts.
Other issues include refunds for county assessment errors, increased costs in unfunded mandates, loss of building aid, and a weakened economy.
“Where are we headed?” asked Dr. Begley. “We need to create a cohesive instructional program in all grades that provides students with challenging curricula for a 21st Century learning environment.” “Our students must be productive, dynamic future leaders,” she added.
Dr. Begley also emphasized the district’s goal of providing teachers and principals with quality professional development and evaluation opportunities that meet the standards and new mandates as outlined in new state regulations.
“Finally, we need to maintain a fiscally responsible budget that supports student learning in increasingly financially challenging times,” she said.
Alma Mater revived
Prior to the meeting, Wantagh High School choral students sang the school’s Alma Mater, which has been revived after several decades, with the support of Board of Education President Jean Quinn, who looks forward to hearing the song sung often.
The board also presented certificates to women’s cross-country All-Conference honoree Liz Stirling; as well as to the members of the Nassau County Class A Champion/Long Island Class A Champion/New York State Finalist women’s volleyball team. The team’s coach, Katie McKeefrey, has been named Nassau County Class A Coach of the Year.
Representatives of student government reported on various successes: the vocal jazz ensemble’s recent performance at Disney World, the National Honor Society induction, and coat and toy drives for the needy sponsored by the Junior Chamber of Commerce.
Board President Jean Quinn wished everyone a happy holiday season and a happy, healthy new year.
The next Wantagh Board of Education meeting will take place on Thursday, January 20, at 8 p.m. in the high school auditorium. Transcripts of this and previous board meetings are available at the district's website, wantaghschools.org.
