2018-19 Budget Approved Board Trustee Ernest J. Kight Jr. Re-elected
On Tuesday, May 15, community residents voted overwhelmingly to approve the Freeport Public Schools 2018-2019 school budget 638 YES to 176 NO. This was the fourth consecutive year the district proposed a budget with a tax levy decrease. Voters also approved the expenditure of funds from existing Capital Reserve Funds 662 YES to 121 NO for the purpose of performing numerous renovations and improvements to district facilities at no additional cost to taxpayers. The Freeport Memorial Library budget also passed 631 YES to 166 NO. Board of Education Trustee Ernest J. Kight Jr., who ran unopposed, was re-elected to a three-year term starting July 1, 2018 through June 30, 2021. He received 711 votes.
"It is our priority to offer our students extraordinary academic and extracurricular opportunities." said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham. "This budget expands our programs and plans for numerous capital improvements with instructional rigor and fiscal responsibility. We are proud of the amazing accomplishments of our students in academics, sports and the arts. With the support of our community, we will continue to move our students to reach greater heights."
The approved school budget will support the continuation of existing programs and provides for additional staff to support students and programs; new course offerings and instructional materials; additional support services for students with special needs, including BOCES services; substantial capital improvement projects; continued support to increase safety; continued expansion of instructional technology; and support for the summer arts academy, a new science technology engineering and mathematics (STEM) summer program and after-school programs and clubs, including robotics.
The expenditure of funds from the district's Capital Reserve funds, previously approved by voters in 2009 and 2017, will be used to fund districtwide repairs and renovations; exterior improvements; air conditioning; security upgrades; building security and entry vestibules; classroom, flooring and lighting renovations; science room and bathroom renovations; ceiling tile and lighting replacements; masonry work; band room, chorus room and display case renovation at Freeport High School and the classroom addition project at Atkinson Intermediate School.
"I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all Freeport community residents who voted and to thank you for your continued confidence and support," said Board of Education President Michael Pomerico. "The Board of Education is pleased to bring our taxpayers a tax levy decrease for the fourth year in a row, while still enhancing our programs."