February 2026 Board of Education Synopsis

February 2026 marks the centennial of Black History celebrations, first established in February 1926 by Dr. Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). This milestone commemorates a century of Black history, culture, and the individuals who have made significant contributions. The Board of Education, Superintendent of Schools, administrators, faculty, staff, and residents observed the centennial of Black History at the February Board of Education meeting.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Sharon A. Dungee introduced and presented plaques of recognition to Cordello Elementary School Principal Dr. Nathaniel Marner, Funded Programs Administrator Ms. Christina Guastella, and teaching assistant and founder of CI Connects for Change Ms. Britnae Tillett. These dedicated individuals were celebrated for their outstanding contributions to the community and for advancing equity, leadership, and service, exemplifying the spirit and legacy of Black History Month.

Dr. Dungee then acknowledged Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Ms. Jessica Iafrate for her leadership in guiding the District along a pathway toward academic achievement. Among the successes Ms. Iafrate announced:

• The District is now off the Accountability list for the first time in nearly 15 years.

• The high school graduation rate increased by 5% this year.

Assistant Superintendent for Business Mr. Frank Bacchi delivered the first in a series of budget presentations and outlined the evolving budget process:

• Budget meetings with directors and administrators to review developmental budgets and identify future goals and opportunities.

• Development of preliminary budgets for salaries and benefits.

• Adjustments and budgeting for new objectives unique to the upcoming fiscal year.

• Continued discussions with the Board of Education and administration.

• Development of the first budget draft.

• Prioritization of expenses and finalization of the budget for consideration.

Important budget-related dates:

• March 9 – Departmental budget presentations (non-instructional, curriculum and instruction, and staffing)

• April 13 – Budget adoption

• May 11 – Budget public hearing

• May 19 – School budget vote

Mr. Bacchi noted that the budget maintains a healthy fund balance and an excellent fiscal stress level, reflecting responsible and prudent financial practices. He anticipates the District will remain well under the 2% tax levy cap. The District is also anticipating an increase in PILOTs (Payments in Lieu of Taxes) and a decrease in capital construction.

Ex officio student liaisons to the Board, Sabrina Delgado-Flores and Taylor Burrell-Ford, presented their report on behalf of the high school student body and shared several upcoming events:

• Harlem Wizards vs. Team CI – February 10

• Progress reports – February 27

• African American Cultural Night

• Little Shop of Horrors – March 6

• A series of SAT preparatory classes

President Alcantara closed the session by announcing the next Board of Education meeting: March 9 at 7:30 p.m. in the Alfano School Multipurpose Room.