April 2026 Board of Education Synopsis

At the April 13 Board of Education Meeting, president Mr. Luis Alcantara opened the meeting calling for a moment of silence to observe the untimely passing of Central Islip High School alumnus, Jaylen Ryer, who was serving in the U.S. military.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Sharon A. Dungee featured recent highlights throughout the district. The Superintendent announced this year's SCOPE Awards recipients which included:

• Maureen Esposito, Board of Education vice president

• Ralph Delgado, Jr., Board of Education trustee

• Kevin A. Seaman, Esq.

• Joseph Cornell, Reed Middle School technology teacher

• John Corrado, Suffolk Transportation Service President/CEO

• Ruben Jon, Central Islip High School food service worker

Dr. Dungee announced Sheriff Errol Toulon's 5th Student Ambassador Graduation at Reed Middle School on March 31and showed News 12's coverage of the ceremony. 

Dr. Dungee introduced Mr. Donny Chiarel, Communications Specialist, who recapped the Central Islip High School Marching Band's participation in New York's St. Patrick's Day Parade. Mr. Chiarel also reflected on Central Islip High School's stage crew's dedication during the recent high school musical production of Little Shop of Horrors while dealing with school closures during 31 inches of snowfall.

Central Islip High School Principal Eric Haruthunian announced that seniors Leticia Kim, the Class of 2026 valedictorian, and Kamila Sarmiento Romero, salutatorian, will attend Harvard University this fall.

Mr. Bacchi explained that the $316.7 million budget represents no increase in the tax levy. Central Islip School District will receive $205 million in State Aid under the governor's proposal. However, Mr. Bacchi said that the State Legislature has yet to adopt New York's budget, where Central Islip School District may receive even more education aid over and above that which the governor has proposed.

Key dates to note include May 11, when the Budget Public Hearing will be held at 7:30 p.m. in the Alfano Multi-Purpose Room, and May 19, when the School Budget Vote will take place in the Alfano gymnasium. Polls will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

The next Board of Education Meeting is May 11 at 7:30 p.m. in the Alfano Multi Purpose Room.