Dear Mamaroneck Schools Community: The Board of Education convened on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, in McLain Auditorium at Mamaroneck High School at 7:00 PM. The full agenda and video can be found here. The evening opened with a lovely performance by the Hommocks Chamber Orchestra.  Staff Recognition Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources Dr. Reinhardt led the District's annual recognition ceremony honoring employees who have dedicated 25 years of service to Mamaroneck schools. Principals and other administrators spoke about the impact and contributions of each honoree. The following staff members were recognized: Kelly Aldarondo Lynn Buehler William J. Byron Antoinette Diaz Iracema Hernandez Theodore J. Hild Kimberly Leary Sarah Malgioglio Robert Rainaldi Adam Rizzuti Ethan Rivel Jose Sanchez Julie Santoiemma Amary Seck Martha Silvestre Therese Valdez Tribute to Retirees The Board also paid tribute to employees retiring from the District and thanked them for their years of service to students, families, and colleagues. Central School Michele Butchar MaryAnn Walkin Chatsworth Avenue School Alex Glass Denise Gleason Dana Hill Kevin Kittle Mamaroneck Avenue School Lynn Buehler Valentine Allen Murray Avenue School Linda DeLasho Laurie Pastore Hommocks Middle School Michelle Burton Adonis Calderon Betty Comerford Lori Gacio Judith Keneally Barbara Montalto Laura Murphy Mamaroneck High School Mara Hirsh Timothy Hooker Cathryn Quackenbush Amary Seck Francine Talt Districtwide Bari Suman Central Office Angela Asher Giovanna Mascoli Joanne Rice The Board approved all items on the consent agenda, including personnel actions, agreements and amendments, budget transfers, special education recommendations, and the acceptance of a $2,000 donation from the Larchmont Mamaroneck Basketball Association to support its annual scholarship program. All additional resolutions were also approved. The Board formally accepted the results of the May 19, 2026 budget vote and Board of Education election. Voters approved the 2026-27 school budget by a vote of 859 to 167 and approved the Capital Reserve Fund proposition by a vote of 898 to 119. Incumbents Michele Metsch and David Carlos were elected to the Board of Education. Superintendent's Report Dr. Sampson provided an update on revisions to the 2026-27 school calendar, noting that the changes reflect provisions included in the recently approved teachers' contract. The revised calendar includes a second Superintendent's Conference Day during which students will not attend school. In addition, students will be dismissed at noon on Friday, September 4, prior to the Labor Day weekend. Dr. Sampson also recognized the District's outstanding athletic accomplishments, noting that Mamaroneck has now earned an exceptional nine sectional championships during the 2025-26 school year. He thanked Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics Bari Suman for her tireless work supporting student-athletes and athletic programs across the District. Dr. Sampson also acknowledged Ms. Suman's upcoming retirement and thanked Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources Dr. Reinhardt for organizing the evening's recognition program. Reflecting on the evening's celebrations, Dr. Sampson remarked that public education is fundamentally a people business, centered on the relationships educators build and the lasting impact they have on generations of students. He expressed gratitude to those being honored and congratulated them on their successful careers and contributions to the Mamaroneck school community. The next Board of Education meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Tiered Classroom at Mamaroneck High School. Additional meeting dates are available on the District calendar.

 

Dear Mamaroneck Schools Community: The Board of Education convened on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, in the Tiered Classroom at Mamaroneck High School at 7:30 PM. The full agenda and meeting materials can be found here. The video can be found here. Student Recognition and Presentations Student Liaisons Alexandra Robinson and Will Cohen opened the meeting with updates and perspectives from Mamaroneck High School students. The Board also recognized students during the annual Mamaroneck High School Fine and Performing Arts Awards presentation. This year’s Rockefeller Awards were presented to Lea Basloe for Visual Arts and Chris Gilder for Performing Arts. Mamaroneck Schools Foundation Grants Representatives from the Mamaroneck Schools Foundation (MSF) presented this year’s recommended student grants and fast-track grants, continuing the Foundation’s longstanding support of innovative learning opportunities across the district. Over nearly 700 grants totaling close to $6 million have been awarded through MSF initiatives over the years. This marks the ninth year of the student grant program. This year, 12 grants totaling nearly $20,000 were awarded. During the presentation, each student appeared in a video describing their proposed grant project and the impact it would have on their learning experience. The district extends its sincere gratitude to the Mamaroneck Schools Foundation for its continued partnership and support of students and staff. The Board later approved resolutions accepting both the student grants and fast-track grants for the 2026-2027 school year. Board Actions and District Business The Board approved several resolutions related to district operations and planning, including a three-year agreement between the District and the Mamaroneck Teachers Association. Superintendent Dr. Chuck Sampson commented on the collaborative process that led to the agreement and noted that it puts the district “in an exceptional place.” Erin Gajda, president of the Mamaroneck Teachers Association, also spoke on behalf of the MTA. The Board also approved the revised 2026-2027 school calendar, which includes updated parent-teacher conference dates.  The Board approved all items on the consent agenda.  Superintendent’s Report Dr. Sampson announced the appointment of Timothy Wieland as the next principal of Mamaroneck High School and shared that the district issued a press release with additional information about his background and experience. Dr. Sampson also introduced Jenny Rodriguez, noting that her work sits at the intersection of many important district initiatives and priorities. Reports/Updates The Board received a District Equity Update presentation focused on the district’s ongoing diversity, inclusion, equity, and belonging work. The presentation highlighted the district’s commitment to providing equitable, inclusive, and diverse opportunities for all students to reach their highest potential. Ms. Rodriguez reviewed ongoing efforts connected to student voice, belonging, school climate, and inclusive practices across the district. She thanked the board and Dr. Sampson for holding firm on the equity work when other districts were pulling back, noting that those districts now have to "pivot back" while Mamaroneck can continue to move the district forward. The presentation also highlighted the district’s MEEL work, referring to the Building-Level Equity Leaders who support inclusive school communities through staff professional development, student leadership opportunities, and building-based equity initiatives designed to address harmful language and strengthen school culture. A key focus of the presentation was the district’s work to identify “Students of Promise” - high-performing, economically disadvantaged students - and use an Equity Dashboard utilizing the new district data warehousing infrastructure to monitor student progress and ensure students receive the academic, social-emotional, and counseling support needed to continue toward college and career success. The dashboard tracks indicators including academic performance, attendance, assessment data, and discipline trends to help guide interventions and support. In addition, Open Architects software helps track why students visit counselors (academic vs. social-emotional) and supports data-driven decision-making. Rodriguez noted that for first-generation college families, waiting until junior year to have college conversations is too late - underscoring why early, proactive family outreach is built into the Students of Promise program. The Board also reviewed results from the district’s Belonging Survey, which measures students’ sense of inclusion, connection, and school climate over time. Ms. Rodriguez will join Dr. Sampson at regular principal data meetings to embed equity systems district-wide. Looking Ahead The Board announced that unofficial budget vote and Board election results would be shared later that evening in the Tiered Classroom. Upcoming Board of Education meeting dates were also reviewed, including the June 2 Study Session and the June 16 Business Meeting. These meetings will be held at 7:00 PM in the Tiered Classroom at MHS. A list of all 2025-26 Board of Education meetings can be found on the agenda and on the district calendar.

Hello to all members of the MUFSD Community,

The Board of Education convened on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, in the Tiered Classroom at MHS at 7:00 PM. Here is the agenda and video of the meeting.

The meeting opened with a performance by the Murray Ave. school choir directed by Nikolas Seger.

The Board approved all items on the consent agenda. The Board held the public hearing for the 2026-27 budget in the amount of $176,560,406. The vote is scheduled for Tuesday, May 19, 2026. No comments were made.

Three propositions are on the ballot: 

• The 2026-2027 budget of $176,560,406 (a 4.36% budget-to-budget increase with a projected 3.07% tax levy increase);

• Use of up to $9 million from the District’s Capital Reserve Fund to support infrastructure and program improvements across our schools.

• Two open School Board Trustee seats.

The Board passed a resolution supporting a request for a NYSDOT engineering review of Boston Post Road (U.S. Route 1) for a corridor-level school safety evaluation in the vicinity of Mamaroneck High School, Central School, and the Hommocks/Weaver Street area. This is connected to the ongoing effort to improve safety conditions along the route.

The Board also authorized a Side Letter of Agreement with the Mamaroneck Teachers Association.

The full list can be found on the agenda.

Superintendent Report

Dr. Sampson spoke further to the resolution about the Speed Zone, indicating that this has been a multi-year effort to designate a portion of Boston Post Rd/Route 1 as a school zone. The district is requesting a formal study by the NYSDOT of the Boston Post Road/U.S. Route 1 corridor in the vicinity of Mamaroneck High School, Central School, and the Hommocks/Weaver Street area, including a potential 25 MPH speed limit review. Dr. Sampson explained that previous attempts to have the area around Hommocks designated as a school zone were denied because the building doesn't physically abut the road, as required by state law. The Town of Mamaroneck also passed a similar resolution seeking DOT action. The district expresses gratitude to Senator Shelley Mayor and Representative Steve Otis for their support.

Dr. Sampson also indicated that the State of the Schools presentations are complete at all buildings except Murray (which occurred May 8) and highlighted how the budget has supported work over the last few years and how it will support future work. Those presentations are available online.

Report on PSAT 8/9 Results and Curriculum Priorities at Hommocks 

With the utilization of college and career readiness data provided through the PSAT 8/9, which all Hommocks 8th graders took in March, district administrators and school instructional leaders examined the impact of curricular work over the past several years, identified both strengths and gaps in student performance, and outlined the next level of work that will take place over the coming months and years.

Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction Dr. Moore framed the work around four key pillars: personalization, coherence, impact focus, and revision, with a focus on strengthening the transition from middle school to high school. Present at the meeting with Dr. Moore was the administrative team helping lead and support this work, including HMX Principal Matthew Samuelson, Director of Humanities 6-12 Margaret Groninger, Director of STEM K-12 Robert Hohn, Supervisor of Instruction Lorraine Leddy, and HMX Assistant Principals Adriane Hirsch-Klein, Soraya Senerchia, Rob Andrews and Maria Albano.

Key Results

• A total of 446 students participated in the PSAT 8/9 assessment.

• 87% of students performed at or above the College and Career Readiness benchmark in ELA.

• 77% performed at or above the benchmark in Math.

ELA Highlights

• Reading comprehension emerged as a significant strength, particularly in the PSAT reading categories Information & Ideas and Craft & Structure.

• Writing precision, grammar, and sentence structure were identified as areas for continued growth.

• Existing supports include Patterns of Power, CommonLit, Newsela, No Red Ink, writing benchmarks, and the district’s partnership with CPET.

ELA Next Steps & Future Planning

• Diagnostic assessments and teacher collaboration will continue through May and June to identify high-leverage writing and language skills.

• Curriculum revisions and expanded common assessments in grades 6-8 will continue through the summer and fall in preparation for the 2026-27 school year.

Math Highlights

• Students enrolled in Algebra 1 performed exceptionally well; students not enrolled in Algebra 1 also did well, while also showing areas for potential growth, including advanced math concepts.

• Geometry and trigonometry showed the largest gap, though much of that content is taught after the March testing window.

• Existing supports include Formative assessment tools, Bridges Intervention, Building Thinking Classrooms, MTSS systems, AIS support, and ENL and special education STEM supports.

Math Next Steps & Future Planning

• The district is piloting two new middle school math programs — Midschool Math and Illustrative Math — with incoming 6th graders.

• The selected program will remain with that cohort through 8th grade.

• District leaders also shared a longer-term goal of creating earlier acceleration opportunities and eventually offering access to geometry before high school.

Student Support & Instructional Systems

• Instructional coaches will continue supporting teachers with diagnostic design, implementation, and analysis.

• MTSS systems will help target interventions and supports.

• AVID will launch next year with a 6th-grade cohort, and all teachers will receive Tier I AVID strategy training.

• Administrators also highlighted efforts to strengthen teaming structures, student groupings, and support systems for ENL and special education students.

Throughout the presentation, district leaders emphasized that the PSAT 8/9 serves as an important tool to measure the impact of curricular work, identify areas for refinement, and help ensure students are increasingly prepared for the opportunities and expectations that await them in high school and beyond.

The next Board of Education meeting will be held on May 19, 2026, at 7:30 PM in the Tiered Classroom at MHS. A list of all 2025-26 Board of Education meetings can be found on the agenda and on the district calendar. 

Hello to all Members of the MUFSD Community:

The Board of Education convened on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, in the Tiered Classroom at Mamaroneck High School at 7:00 PM. The full agenda and video can be found here.

The meeting opened with a lovely performance from 4th and 5th grade band students who will be attending the NYSSMA Solo Festival.

Student Liaison Alexandra Robinson provided an update on recent events and activities at the high school, highlighting student engagement across academics, arts, and extracurriculars.

The Board approved all items on the consent agenda. The Board also adopted the 2026-27 budget and property tax report card. All additional resolutions were also approved.

Superintendent's Report 

In his Superintendent’s Report, Dr. Sampson began by providing context on the upcoming ballot proposition, clarifying that it seeks authorization to use up to $9 million into the District’s capital reserve, but that the funds will not be expended at one time.

He highlighted the District’s strong showing at WESEF and celebrated the first graduating class of Dos Caminos, noting a meaningful ceremony that concluded with a slideshow of students dating back to their Pre-K years.

Dr. Sampson also shared that MHS will administer nearly 2,000 Advanced Placement exams this year, with approximately 2,300 anticipated next year. While this reflects strong student participation, it also requires ongoing planning to manage space and scheduling while school remains in session.

In response to questions regarding administrative staffing, Dr. Sampson shared comparative data from Westchester County districts. Despite being the fourth largest district in the county, Mamaroneck ranks 29th in student-to-building administrator ratio, 36th in student-to-overall administrator ratio, and 39th in central administrator-to-student ratio.

Dr. Sampson concluded by congratulating Murray Avenue Principal Matt Porricelli on his upcoming transition to the District’s business office and briefly outlined next steps in the process to identify the school’s next principal.

Technology Plan Update

Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Moore presented the District’s ongoing work to develop a thoughtful, K–12 approach to technology use in classrooms. This work is informed by extensive analysis, including student surveys, classroom walkthroughs, and research on global trends, and will guide a future districtwide technology policy. The district is committed to defining the K–12 expectations of what use looks like and what successful use looks like. 

Dr. Moore noted that student performance trends have been declining globally since 2012, predating the pandemic and pointing to broader shifts in learning. At the same time, the rapid expansion of technology in schools has not consistently translated into more meaningful learning experiences. Importantly, New York State requires schools to teach technology skills, and forthcoming AI guidance will further shape expectations, making it essential that the District take a deliberate and informed approach.

Student voice played a central role in this work and will continue to do so. Students shared that technology can sometimes feel like a crutch, expressed concern about overreliance on AI and its broader impact, and emphasized a desire for more authentic connection and engagement.

Dr. Moore outlined three guiding commitments moving forward: 

• ensuring technology is used deliberately with clear learning outcomes and reflects real-world application

• providing students with choice in selecting the tools that best support their learning

• prioritizing engagement as the foundation for instruction, with technology serving as a support rather than a substitute

Next steps include sharing a formal report with the Board and staff, followed by the conitinued examination of K–12 expectations for technology use aligned to state standards, with opportunities for community review. The district is committed to defining the K-12 expectations of what use looks like and what successful use looks like. This work is happening in all schools. The district is also committed to gathering and sharing data with parents about how and when students are using technology. 

The BoE President Ariana Cohen, reminded voters that a school voter registration day will be held on Wednesday, May 13, at MHS in the District Clerk's office from 9 AM - 3 PM. The budget and school board trustee election is on May 19, 2026.  All voter registration information and 2026-27 budget information can be found HERE on the district website. The next Board of Education meeting will be held on May 5, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Tiered Classroom at Mamaroneck High School at which the BoE will hold the annual public hearing on the 2026-27 budget. Additional meeting dates are listed on the district calendar.

Hello to all members of the MUFSD Community,

The Board of Education convened on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, in the Tiered Classroom at Mamaroneck High School at 7:00 PM. The full agenda and video can be found here.

The Board approved all items on the consent agenda. All additional resolutions were also approved.

Superintendent's Proposed Budget: Enrollment and Staffing

As part of the continued 2026–27 budget presentation series, district leaders presented an overview of enrollment and demographic trends and their implications for staffing and program planning.

The presentation highlighted several important trends shaping the District’s work. While elementary enrollment continues to decline gradually, the needs of the student population are becoming increasingly complex. The number of English Language Learners and students requiring specialized supports has grown over time, and economic disadvantage remains one of the strongest predictors of student achievement. This is not unique to Mamaroneck, but reflects broader patterns seen across districts.

These trends have direct implications for staffing. As enrollment shifts and student needs evolve, the District must ensure it remains in compliance with all state and federal requirements while also making strategic, forward-looking decisions. The approach is both efficient and intentional, aligning staffing with student needs while advancing the priorities outlined in the Strategic Framework.

At the high school level, this has translated into targeted staffing decisions that improve both access and experience for students. The District has added sections to reduce class sizes in certain Regents courses, where class sizes had previously been among the highest, and has expanded course offerings to ensure that students who wish to take additional classes have meaningful options available rather than unscheduled periods.

Superintendent’s Report

Dr. Sampson shared highlights from his recent participation in the League of Innovative Schools, a selective, national network of districts focused on innovation and systems-level improvement. Director of Research, Assessment and Accountability Jesse Dancy and Dr. Moore also attended, with Dr. Moore serving on a panel focused on systems leadership.

Dr. Sampson also noted that the District has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the Rye YMCA to explore expanded after-school programming for middle school students. This possible partnership will focus on developing opportunities for academic enrichment, social-emotional learning, and student engagement beyond the school day.

The Board shared information regarding the upcoming budget vote and Board of Education trustee election, including voter registration requirements and key deadlines.

The next Board of Education meeting will be held on April 21, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Tiered Classroom at Mamaroneck High School at which the BoE will vote on adoption of the 2026-27 budget. Additional meeting dates are listed on the district calendar.

 

Hello to all members of the MUFSD Community,

The Board of Education convened on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, in the Tiered Classroom at MHS at 7:00 PM. Here is the agenda and video of the meeting.

The Board approved all items on the consent agenda. All additional resolutions were also approved; the full list can be found on the agenda.

Student Liaisons Report

Student liaisons Alexandra Robinson and Robert Grimes shared updates from across the district, highlighting recent student activities, events, and areas of focus at the high school. Their report continues to provide valuable insight into the student experience and school climate.

Mamaroneck Schools Foundation Grants

The Mamaroneck Schools Foundation (MSF) presented its 2026–2027 teacher grant slate, continuing its strong tradition of supporting innovative classroom experiences across all schools. A total of 13 grants were awarded this year, with an overall investment of $158,383.93 to support teaching and learning throughout the district.

The Board also accepted an additional round of MSF fast-track grants for the current school year, further expanding opportunities for students and staff.

2026–2027 Budget Discussion

As part of the ongoing budget development process, the Board reviewed the Superintendent’s proposed 2026–2027 budget. The presentation was grounded in several key ideas that served as the foundation for the entire discussion.

Dr. Sampson emphasized that strong outcomes continue to permeate the district, supported by a clear strategic framework and a sustained focus on continuous improvement. He also highlighted that the investments made in the 2025–2026 budget have positioned the district to be a successful and high-performing system, with progress evident across academic programs, student supports, and district operations.

These foundational themes carried through the district’s priorities for the coming year, including maintaining alignment across programs, strengthening instructional practices, and continuing to expand opportunities for students.

The proposed 2026–2027 budget of $176,560,406 reflects these priorities and includes a tax levy increase of 3.07%, which remains within the allowable cap. Staffing and student supports remain central, with salaries and benefits accounting for nearly 80% of the budget. Continued investments will support appropriate staffing levels, expanded counseling and student services, and strengthened instructional leadership and coaching.

Facilities and infrastructure were discussed, with the district moving from “reset to reform” in this area. This work is supported through the use of capital reserves, allowing the district to make important upgrades to learning environments and complete large-scale projects in a fiscally responsible way.

Transportation costs were also highlighted as a significant component of the budget, representing approximately $6 million in required services annually.

Transportation Application to Private/Parochial Schools

Residents who are considering sending their child to a private or parochial school are reminded that transportation requests must be submitted by April 1, 2026. Families are encouraged to submit applications for any school they may be considering, as late requests cannot be accommodated. The form can be accessed HERE. Additional information and forms are available on the district website.

Additional Business

The Board also reviewed items under New Business, the Consent Agenda, and donations. Community members are encouraged to view the full agenda for additional details.

The next Board of Education meeting will be held on April 7, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Tiered Classroom at MHS. A full schedule of Board meetings is available on the district website.

 

Hello to all members of the MUFSD Community, The Board of Education convened on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, in the Tiered Classroom at MHS at 7:00 PM. Here is the agenda and video of the meeting.  The meeting opened with a wonderful performance by the sixth grade camerata orchestra directed by Scott Douglas.  The Board then approved all items on the consent agenda. All additional resolutions were also approved; the full list can be found here.  Student Support Services Report As part of the District’s ongoing 2026–27 budget presentation series, Assistant Superintendent for Student Support Services Dr. Tamar Walker, joined by Cori Wagner and Karen Vitti, Directors of Special Education, provided an overview of Student Support Services and the scope of supports provided to students across all schools. Dr. Walker opened the presentation by noting that Student Support Services is the largest department in the district from a programmatic, personnel, and budgetary standpoint, making it especially important to clearly identify trends in student need and to share how the department continuously responds to those trends. She emphasized that the district’s increasing use of data and data tools plays a critical role in this work, helping educators and administrators more clearly see both student needs and student progress over time, and ensuring that decisions are informed, responsive, and aligned with best practices. Dr. Walker outlined the major components of Student Support Services, including special education programs, related services, clinical and counseling supports, health services, preschool services, Section 504 plans, and services provided to students attending nonpublic schools. The presentation emphasized that these services support students’ academic, social-emotional, and behavioral needs and are delivered through a combination of district staff, contracted providers, and community partnerships. The team shared enrollment and service trends demonstrating a continued increase in the number of students requiring support. Total students classified for special education increased from 930 students in 2021–22 to 1,065 students in 2025–26, representing an increase of approximately 14.5% over that period. Growth was also noted in the number of students receiving Section 504 accommodations and related services, reflecting evolving and increasingly complex student needs across grade levels. The data presented demonstrate a sustained increase in the number of students requiring special education, Section 504 accommodations, and related services across the district, reinforcing the central role Student Support Services play in meeting growing and evolving student needs. As these needs increase, so too do the staffing requirements necessary to provide mandated instruction, therapeutic services, and supports, which directly influence the overall instructional budget. The presentation also emphasized that many student support services are required under state and federal regulations, meaning the district is legally obligated to deliver them. While this work reflects Mamaroneck’s commitment to serving the whole child, it also requires careful planning to ensure that staffing levels, expertise, and service delivery models remain aligned with both student needs and regulatory expectations. The presentation further reviewed special education instructional programs at the elementary, middle, and high school levels, including integrated co-teaching, special class programs, and out-of-district placements, as well as transition planning between levels. Throughout the discussion, the team emphasized alignment with district priorities such as personalization, data-informed decision-making, mentorship, and expertise. In his Superintendent's Report, Dr. Sampson highlighted several recent student accomplishments and district updates. He recognized OCRA students who traveled to Albany for Advocacy Day, noting that Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins was present to see the students off and that News12 aired a segment highlighting the students’ advocacy work. Dr. Sampson commended MHS students and faculty on the production of Anything Goes and welcomed the return of the K–12 Juxtapositions Art Show, thanking faculty for their work supporting students across the district. He also noted a feature being developed by students writing for the MHS Globe, comparing an interview with the superintendent from the 1970s with a present-day interview, in which he is participating. Dr. Sampson announced that the district will offer full-day Universal Prekindergarten (UPK) beginning next school year, with additional details to be shared in the coming months. He concluded by recognizing postseason success among winter student-athletes. The next Board of Education meeting will be held on March 3, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Tiered Classroom at MHS. A list of all 2025-26 Board of Education meetings can be found on the agenda and on the district calendar.

 

Hello to all members of the MUFSD Community.  Following are recaps of the Board of Education meetings held on January 27 and January 13, 2026.
 

January 27

The Board of Education convened on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, in the Tiered Classroom at MHS at 7:00 PM. Here is the agenda and video of the meeting. 

Please note that School Board meetings will be televised locally on 35 Verizon and 76 Optimum.

The Board approved all items on the consent agenda. All additional resolutions were also approved; the full list can be found here. 

In his Superintendent’s Report, Dr. Sampson shared a series of district updates and highlights. He announced that the Rye City YMCA and MUFSD have been awarded a $50,000 grant and will support an afterschool program at MAS, expanding enrichment opportunities for students. Dr. Sampson also thanked the Facilities team for their swift and thorough cleanup efforts following the recent storm, noting their work ensured schools reopened safely. He congratulated Director of Health, Physical Education, and Athletics Bari Suman who was named Section 1 Administrator of the Year and recognized at a recent awards ceremony which he had the opportunity to attend. Dr. Sampson reported on recent community outreach, including a visit with Chatsworth Avenue School Principal Lauren Scharfstein to Larchmont Avenue Church at the invitation of the Larchmont Women’s Club, where they discussed changes in public education and engaged in a Q&A on topics such as technology use and artificial intelligence in schools. Dr. Sampson added that he continues to meet with school principals to review student data and school-level goals.

Assistant Superintendent for Business Sylvia Fassler-Wallach presented the non-instructional budget report, outlining the key operational areas that support district programs and services. She reviewed the work of the Business Office, including grants management, audits, capital projects, and core financial and operational functions. Ms. Fassler-Wallach also highlighted completed and upcoming information technology initiatives, facilities projects across all schools, districtwide security operations, and transportation services, providing context for what is reflected in the non-instructional portion of the budget.

She shared a proposition to utilize the district’s capital reserve to fund a range of capital projects between 2026 and 2028. If approved by voters, these projects would be funded through the reserve and would not increase the tax levy or tax rate. The presentation can be found HERE.

Finally, MUFSD residents that wish to request transportation for school age children to private and parochial schools must submit their request to transportation@mamkschools.org by 4:00 pm on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.  The form is available on the Districts website, www.mamkschools.org.  To access the form, click the "Transportation" link under the "Community" tab and look for the application link for 2026-2027.  To be eligible for transportation, K-8 grade students must live more than two and less than fifteen miles from the school; 9-12 grade students must live more than three and less than fifteen miles from the school. 

The next Board of Education meeting will be held on February 10, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Tiered Classroom at MHS; Dr. Tamar Walker will present about the Special Services Department and the 2026-27 budget. A list of all 2025-26 Board of Education meetings can be found on the agenda and on the district calendar. 

 

January 13

The Board of Education convened on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, in the Tiered Classroom at MHS at 7:00 PM. Here is the agenda and video of the meeting. 

The Board approved all items on the consent agenda. All additional resolutions were also approved; the full list can be found here. 

Assessment Report

Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction Dr. Jeff Moore led a follow-up review of Spring 2025 statewide assessment results, situating Mamaroneck UFSD’s performance within a broader comparative and improvement-focused framework. He explained that the district has continued refining a methodology developed last year to compare performance against “like districts,” aligning analysis and goal-setting with the district’s strategic framework and scorecard. Dr. Moore emphasized that assessment data is one of several tools used to better understand students, personalize learning experiences, and ensure instructional decisions are responsive to student needs and strengths.

The presentation highlighted Grades 3–8 ELA and mathematics trends over time, with results examined across multiple lenses, including cohort performance and comparisons to New York State. Overall data show that Mamaroneck UFSD continues to perform strongly relative to its comparison group when considering all students, often ranking in the top third across key achievement indicators. Reading and writing remain areas of relative strength, while math performance reflects both areas of growth and opportunities for continued instructional focus. These findings help educators identify where students need additional support or challenge and guide decisions about curriculum, instruction, and academic pathways.

Disaggregated data provided important insight into equity and access. When examining students not experiencing economic disadvantage, district performance rises closer to the top of the comparison group. When focusing specifically on students experiencing poverty, outcomes remain more challenging; however, results show improvement compared to the previous year. These trends underscore the district’s ongoing commitment to closing opportunity gaps, strengthening targeted supports, and ensuring all students have access to rigorous, engaging learning experiences.

Dr. Moore was joined by Director of Early Literacy, K-5 Suzanne Carroll, Supervisor of Instruction Lorraine Leddy and Director of STEM, K-12 Robert Hohn, who provided specific classroom and program-level examples illustrating how the district is using data in practice. Through these examples, they demonstrated how multiple data sources are used to inform instruction, how instructional coaches support teachers in analyzing results and translating data into practice, and what the district is learning about teacher actions that lead to meaningful instructional change. The presenters highlighted how coaching, collaboration, and data-informed decision-making support personalized intervention and enrichment, giving students opportunities to express their interests, strengths, and voice in their learning.

The presentation concluded with a focus on continual improvement. Building on last year’s site-based goals centered on closing opportunity gaps, the district has expanded structures that support shared analysis, common assessments, and aligned professional learning. Together, these efforts reinforce Mamaroneck’s commitment to personalization—ensuring each student is supported, challenged, and empowered to grow.

In his Superintendent's Report, Dr. Sampson began by making a few additional comments related to the assessment scores and improvements in the system. Looking ahead, he highlighted that the upcoming 2026-27 budget presentations at BoE meetings will follow the established cadence. They include: Non-instructional budget on 1/27; Special Services Dept. on 2/10; a high-level budget presentation from Dr. Sampson on 3/3; a comprehensive budget presentation (3/24). 

Additionally, MHS will offer a session for ninth grade students and their families about the pathways in the coming years, as course offerings have been expanded. Dr. Sampson pointed out that MHS is holding an information session for ninth grade students and their families to better understand course offerings in the upcoming years, as notable additions to offerings have been made. Dr. Sampson pointed out that the 2026-27 school calendar had been approved at this meeting and that the 2026-27 school year will begin before Labor Day. Beginning next year, the district will also recognize Diwali and Eid al-Fitr as holidays. 

A list of all 2025-26 Board of Education meetings can be found on the agenda and on the district calendar. 

 

Hello and Happy New Year to all members of the MUFSD Community,

We hope everyone enjoyed their time over the break. Below is a recap of the December 11 Board of Education meeting. While the timing of this recap comes later than usual and after the lengthy holiday break, it is important that it be shared, as it provides context for ongoing Board discussions. The conversation around data and assessment will continue at the Board of Education meeting, tomorrow, Tuesday the 14th.

Recap  

The Board of Education convened on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, in the Tiered Classroom at MHS at 7:00 PM. Here is the agenda and video of the meeting. 

The meeting opened with a musical performance by fourth grade students at Central Ave. School called ‘Turn Off Your Phone” followed by a report from student liaison Robert Grimes who covered a range of recent and upcoming HS activities. 

Updates on Bond-Related Work

An update on districtwide facilities and bond projects was delivered by members of the architectural and construction management team at LAN Associates.The presentation provided a comprehensive overview of the 2024 Bond Program, including completed work, projects currently underway, and upcoming phases across all district schools.

The update highlighted completed Phase 1 improvements at Hommocks Middle School, Mamaroneck High School, and Mamaroneck Avenue School. These projects included pool and locker room renovations, roofing and flooring upgrades, HVAC replacements, plumbing and electrical improvements, masonry restoration, classroom and corridor upgrades, and enhanced accessibility features. Together, these improvements address critical infrastructure needs while modernizing learning, athletic, and support spaces.

The presentation also outlined work scheduled for completion in 2026 and beyond, including continued masonry restoration, corridor door replacements, HVAC and chiller upgrades, pool and natatorium system replacements, cafeteria reconfigurations, new full cooking kitchens and serving lines, fire alarm and sanitary piping upgrades, and additional ADA improvements such as ramps, entrances, and restrooms. Phase 2 projects extend into 2027 and include major programmatic enhancements, such as new music spaces, renovated gymnasiums, and expanded dining areas.

Next steps include continued Phase 1 construction through 2026, with Phase 2 projects beginning in earnest in 2026 and extending into 2027. 

A public hearing was held for the District-Wide Emergency Management Plan (Safety Plan), after which the plan was adopted. The Board approved all resolutions; the full list can be found here. 

Assessment Report

Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction Jeff Moore reviewed the latest PSAT scores which the district recently received, providing an overview of the results and how assessment data is used to support student learning across the secondary level. While overall scores are an important part of the picture, the focus was on how PSAT data helps educators reflect on instruction, identify patterns, and make informed programmatic decisions.

PSAT participation was strong among 10th and 11th grade students, with a small group of 9th graders also participating. Overall performance data shows that:

• Many students met or exceeded college and career readiness benchmarks in reading, writing, and math.
   

• Reading and writing remain relative strengths across grade levels.
   

• Math results indicate areas where continued focus on foundational skills and instructional alignment is needed.
   

Beyond overall performance, PSAT data provides insight into specific skill areas such as reading comprehension, writing conventions, algebraic reasoning, and problem solving. These patterns help educators examine curriculum pacing, coherence across courses, and opportunities for targeted support or challenge.

PSAT results are one of several data points used to better understand students over time. When considered alongside classroom assessments, coursework, and educator observations, the data helps inform decisions about course pathways, academic supports, and access to opportunities at key transition points. This information supports the district’s commitment to personalization by helping schools respond to student needs, offer the right level of academic support and learning challenge, and create meaningful options for students. In doing so, assessment data helps shape a secondary experience where students are supported academically and encouraged to grow, take ownership of their learning, and explore pathways aligned with their strengths and goals.

Hommocks Middle School Principal Matthew Samuelson and Mamaroneck High School Principal Lina Cannavo then shared how assessment data is used within their buildings to support personalization. Principal Samuelson described how personalization is advanced through the MTSS framework, which provides educators with data to make informed decisions about student growth, support, and enrichment. He emphasized that teachers use data daily to adjust instruction and respond to student needs in real time. Both principals highlighted the importance of common assessments with common rubrics, noting that shared expectations allow educators to better understand student progress and ensure consistency. At the high school level, Principal Cannavo emphasized a strong focus on building horizontal consistency across classes, so students have equitable experiences regardless of teacher or course section. Together, these practices help schools make thoughtful decisions about courses and enrichment, while ensuring students have a more consistent and supportive experience across classrooms. (Note that state assessment data will be covered at the January 13, 2026 meeting.)

In his Superintendent's Report, Dr. Sampson shared that on December 11, administrators would engage with Learning Center Collaborative for professional development. He provided a brief look-ahead to the 2026-27 budget and related factors. He also recognized the winter concert series and the holiday celebrations across the buildings. 

The next Board of Education meeting will be held on January 13, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Tiered Classroom at MHS. A list of all 2025-26 Board of Education meetings can be found on the agenda and on the district calendar. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hello to all members of the MUFSD Community,

The Board of Education convened on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, in the Tiered Classroom at MHS at 7:00 PM. Here is the agenda and video of the meeting. 

The meeting opened with a sneak-peek performance from student musicians who will take the stage in the upcoming PACE Soundscapes shows which run from December 4 - 6. The group energized the room with Blondie’s One Way or Another, demonstrating the musical skill and confidence that define our PACE performers. Tune in to the video for a preview of their talent; you’ll see that it is a performance you won’t want to miss.

Next up was a report from student liaison Robert Grimes who covered a range of recent and upcoming HS activities. Superintendent Dr. Sampson then introduced the portion of the meeting during which members of the administration were recognized for receiving tenure. Following is the list of recipients; congratulations to all!

Maria Albano - Assistant Principal

Margaret Groninger - Director of Humanities 

Tina Ponce - Assistant Principal

Matthew Porricelli - Principal

Claire Reinhard - Assistant Superintendent for Administration and Personnel

Jenny Rodriguez - Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

Soraya Senerchia - Assistant Principal   

Sandra Zadrima - Principal

 

Next was a report from The Larchmont Mamaroneck STEM Alliance recapping the experience in the Summer of 2025, which was hosted at Chatsworth Ave. school. The team provided detail on the three programs: Elementary Co-op; Mosaic Innovation Camp; and RISE Leadership.

The Board approved all items on the consent agenda and all resolutions were also approved; the full list can be found here. 

In his Superintendent's Report, Dr. Sampson stated that the 2026-2027 budget timeline has been developed and that he and Assistant Superintendent for Business Sylvia Fassler-Wallach will be holding several meetings in the coming weeks and months to discuss the budget. He also said that the 2026-27 school year will begin before Labor Day due to the Labor Day being later in the month. (The 2026-27 calendar will be available in early 2026.) The district held a training to pilot an assessment software called Formative to collaborate on and create common assessments.

Dr. Sampson also praised the work of Transportation Supervisor Liju Thomas and Murray Ave. School Principal Matt Porricelli for their work with the Make-a-Wish Foundation to help grant a wish for a young child who resides in the Murray Ave. area. A key component of the boy’s wish was to ride on a school bus and the district arranged for he and his family to get that ride (which was donated by Royal Coach Bus Company). The bus drove to Murray Ave. school where students lined the street with signs, cheering for the boy’s name. The bus then took the family to Westchester County Airport for their flight to Disney World. (See more on our Facebook page, MamaroneckPublicSchools) Finally, Dr. Sampson congratulated the Field Hockey team for its victories in the post-season and competitive spirit through its final game last weekend. The Varsity Football team continues its first post-season run following their Class AA Section 1 Championship. The Tigers take on Monroe-Woodbury on Saturday, November 22 at 3:00 PM at Arlington HS.

The next Board of Education meeting will be held on December 9, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Tiered Classroom at MHS. A list of all 2025-26 Board of Education meetings can be found on the agenda and on the district calendar. 

 

Hello to all members of the MUFSD Community,

The Board of Education convened on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, in the Tiered Classroom at MHS at 7:00 PM. Here is the agenda and video of the meeting. 

NOTE: For those who access Board of Education meetings through Optum TV, please note that the channels have changed. Please see the attached for more information.

The meeting began with a report from student liaisons Robert Grimes and Alexandra Robinson.

The Board then approved all items on the consent agenda and all resolutions were also approved; the full list can be found here. 

The majority of the Board meeting was dedicated to recognizing faculty and staff who received tenure. Administrators from across the district spoke about each of the following individuals, describing the skills and attributes that make them such valued members of the MUFSD team. Congratulations to all tenure recipients!

CENTRAL:

Kimberly Scheier

Ariana Tringali

CHATSWORTH:

Averie Berger

Kimberly Broccoli

Mary Grainzvolt-Moran

Alyson Lorys

Claudia Voyiatzis

MAS:

Natalia Gutierrez Muriel

Samantha Leader

MURRAY:

Laura Wechsler

HOMMOCKS:

Karen Caine

Jonathan Powers

Aaron Axelson

Caitlin O’Connor

Lisa Callahan

Tabitha Colon Jr.

Samantha Casler

Bryan Suertegaray-Santana

Derek Cereola

MAMARONECK HIGH SCHOOL:

Jennifer Spellman

Candace Athanasoulias

Carrissa Fitzpatrick

 

In his Superintendent's Report, Dr. Sampson commented on the success of Homecoming week and hte deep sense of community felt throughout the district. He indicated that LM Connects was holding a panel discussion to review survey findings about drug and alcohol use among MHS students. He also shared that the district would offer PSATs to 10th and 11th grade students for the first time (held on 10/23). 

The next Board of Education meeting will be held on November 18, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Tiered Classroom at MHS. A list of all 2025-26 Board of Education meetings can be found on the agenda and on the district calendar. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hello to all members of the MUFSD Community,

The Board of Education convened on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, in the Tiered Classroom at MHS at 7:00 PM. Here is the agenda and video of the meeting. 

NOTE: For those who access Board of Education meetings through Optimum TV, please note that the channels have changed. Please see the attached for more information.

The meeting commenced with updates from student liaisons Robert Grimes and Alexandra Robinson about Welcome Week, the addition of student body Spirit Leaders, the high interest among freshmen in student government, and a look ahead to events later this month. 

Next, the Board approved all items on the consent agenda. All additional resolutions were also approved; the full list can be found here. 

A detailed presentation was given by Dr. Sampson and Dr. Moore about the district’s Strategic Framework.  Dr. Sampson reviewed the district’s mission statement, indicating that the promises in the mission remain relevant but the team modernized and simplified the language. At its core, our work is about inquiry, curiosity, and integrity, in service to community. Following a brief review of the Framework, the discussion quickly shifted from theory and approach to how the work is actionable across the K-12 continuum.

Dr. Moore, whom Dr. Sampson recognized for his leadership on this initiative, spoke in detail about the work that has been done to bring the framework from theory to action. He presented the scorecard that has been developed specifically for the MUFSD to assess progress against our promises. He also outlined the data tools the district is and will use to facilitate personalization and track outcomes. He illustrated how the work being done is intended to help students have a voice in their educational experience and to get to know themselves and what makes them successful. Dr. Moore concluded by showing how our district will fulfill the promise of the NYS Portrait of a Graduate. The presentation can be found in the Strategic Framework section of our website. 

The next Board of Education meeting, a Study Session, will focus on assessment data and performance and will be held on October 7, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Tiered Classroom at MHS. A list of all 2025-26 Board of Education meetings can be found on the agenda and on the district calendar. 

 

Hello to all members of the MUFSD Community,

The Board of Education convened on Tuesday, Sept 2, 2025, in the Tiered Classroom at MHS at 7:00 PM. Here is the agenda and video of the meeting. 

NOTE: For those who access Board of Education meetings through Optimum TV, please note that the channels have changed. Please see the attached for more information.

The meeting commenced with approval of all items on the consent agenda. Following an opportunity for public hearing, the Board also approved a resolution to adopt the District Wide Emergency Management Plan (Safety Plan). All additional resolutions were also approved; the full list can be found here. 

In his Superintendent's Report, Dr. Sampson reviewed administrative work, educational programs and facilities projects undertaken over the summer. These include a three-day leadership retreat at which the team focused on refining the district’s mission statement and creating a district-level scorecard, the extended school year program, an expansion of the ramp-up for mathematics between seventh and eighth grades, and the inaugural class of students enrolled in a summer course for geometry. (Note that facilities work is covered in the following paragraph.) The district Convocation was held on August 28, during which Dr. Sampson focused on shared purpose and communication. He drew upon lessons from the book Super Communicators, which was discussed at the leadership retreat. He encouraged all faculty and staff to appreciate the importance, power, and nuances of communication in their work. 

Assistant Superintendent for Business, Sylvia Fassler-Wallach provided an update on work undertaken by the Business Office followed by reports about each area under the purview of the Business Office: Facilities, Food Service, IT, and Transportation. Following is a brief summary of the report; the full presentation can be viewed here. 

Facilities: A number of improvements and repairs (part of the general fund; not part of a capital projects) were completed across each of the schools this summer. Final work was completed on initiatives that are part of the district’s 2019 Capital Project. Additionally, work is ongoing on some of the projects that are part of the 2024 Capital Project while plans on others are being submitted to NYSED for approval. The District also continues to make progress on the items included in the Energy Performance Contract with a number of items being completed. We are also proud to share that the District received a $500,000 grant to make electrical updates at MHS which once complete, will support the installation of air conditioning.

Food Service: Free meals were served over the summer to Extended School Year students and Coop Campers.  The District applied and was approved for the NYS free meals program that kicked off the first day of school. Each student is eligible for one free breakfast and one free lunch daily.  Students will be charged for second meals and a la carte items.

IT: A wide array of security upgrades have been completed, network storage has been upgraded, and equipment has been collected and distributed to faculty and students. 

Transportation: The district will continue partnering with Rye Neck for efficiencies and will also work with Ardsley UFSD to share routes for additional savings. 

The next Board of Education meeting, a Study Session, will be held on September 16, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Tiered Classroom at MHS. A list of all 2025-26 Board of Education meetings can be found on the agenda and on the district calendar. 

Hello to all members of the MUFSD Community,

The Board of Education held its annual reorganization meeting on Tuesday, July 7, 2025, in the Tiered Classroom at MHS at 8:30 AM. Here is the agenda and video of the meeting.  The meeting commenced with the swearing in of Superintendent Dr. Charles Sampson, new Board of Education trustee Stacey D’Arcy, BoE President Ariana Cohen (approved unanimously), BoE Vice President Dr. Athena Belsito Maikish (approved unanimously), BoE Secretary Michele Metsch (approved unanimously). Several personnel appointments in various roles followed.  In the Superintendent's Report, Dr. Sampson reviewed the topics that were covered at the recent administrative team retreat, including the importance of communications and a discussion of the book Super Communicators, which was read by all. The team collaborated to provide final guidance on the district mission statement, which guides the Strategic Framework. The group also explored the use of an AI partner to identify and solve problems. Finally, they worked to develop a public-facing scorecard to track progress and show measurable results. The scorecard will be finalized in the coming months. In the report provided by the Assistant Superintendent for Business, Sylvia Fassler Wallach provided an update on the district’s efforts to successfully open the Hommocks pool on schedule. It opened on June 30 in advance of the planned opening on July 1. Ms. Fassler Wallach thanked a team of people, led by Steve Brugge, who came together to complete the project. Using district staff to perform electrical work saved thousands of dollars. Additional facilities updates were provided.  The next Board of Education meeting, a Study Session, will be held on September 2, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the tiered classroom at MHS. A list of all 2025-26 Board of Education meetings can be found on the agenda and on the district calendar.

 

Hello to all members of the MUFSD Community,

The Board of Education held a meeting on Tuesday, May 20, 2025; here is the agenda and video of the meeting. 

The meeting commenced with MHS seniors Bella Pianko providing a comprehensive update about events that have occurred and are scheduled for MHS.

Two students were presented with Mamaroneck High School Fine Arts Awards. Jill Shoffiett presented Kaitlyn Thomas with the  2025 Rockefeller Award for Visual Arts and Allison Parsley presented Madisen Lora with 2025 PACE Rockefeller Award for Performing Arts. Madison performed “Flowers” from the Broadway Show, Hadestown. 

Dr. Sampson congratulated both Kaitlyn and Madison, referring to the arts as the “lifeblood” of the school.

Mamaroneck Schools Foundation presented its 2025-26 student grant slate. Speaking on behalf of MSF, President Sarah Dunn highlighted the 14 student grants totaling $40,000 which is the largest amount for students to date. A video of student grant recipients was shown and can be seen in the BoE video. The grants will support:

1. Healthy Nutrition for Teens 

2. Impressions Magazine - MHS Student Art Magazine

3. Salt Marsh Ecology

4. Get Ready for Band! Wind Instrument Tryout Kits

5. Specialized NY History Workshop

6. Mental Wellness in Music

7. Wonder Project Assemblies

8. Game On! Bringing Chess Districtwide

9. Growing Seedlings at the MHS Community Garden

10. MHS Indoor Golf Equipment

11. American Rocketry Challenge

12. MHS Hackathon

13. STEM Outreach Program

14. Building Healthy Relationships

All resolutions were approved unanimously by the BoE; attachments and/or descriptions are available on the BoardDocs agenda.

In his Superintendent's Report, Dr. Sampson highlighted the recent MHS Career Fair and how organizers leveraged the community's expertise. MHS Class of 2006 graduate Lina Kahn, delivered the keynote address. Ms. Khan served as Chair of the Federal Trade Commission from 2021 to 2025.

Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources Dr. Claire Reinhard provided a personnel update, including the status of the search for a new Director of Special Education and Assistant Principal at Mamaroneck Ave. School. 

Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction Dr. Jeffrey Moore covered a range of topics. In reviewing the three core tenets of the Strategic Framework - personalization, mentorship, and expertise - he noted that personalization has been the area of focus to date. Dr. Moore provided examples of mentorship related to the fifth-grade capstone and MHS intern experiences. For expertise, he highlighted scheduling and standardized timeframes for teaching academic subjects, as well as preserving opportunities for enrichment and intervention. Training on using scheduling tools is being provided. 

Dr. Moore spoke about how data is informing the district’s approach in multiple areas. This includes a comprehensive look at literacy performance data dashboard and the specific approach to addressing gaps and improving student outcomes. Other examples are looking at outcomes of teaming at Hommocks, and tracking interactions with each HS student (social emotional/academic/career) to build a guidance curriculum. Other updates and examples can be seen in the video. 

The meeting concluded with an announcement of the unofficial 2025-26 Budget Results: 1008 YES votes and 310 NO votes. The community also approved a proposition to establish a Capital Reserve Fund to save up to $20 million over the next 15 years for future facility needs. Voters also chose two trustees, each of whom will serve on the Board of Education for a three-year term. They are Dr. Athena Belsito-Maikish and Stacey D’Arcy. 
 

The next Board of Education meeting will be held on June 3, 2025, at 7 PM in the tiered classroom at MHS.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hello to all members of the MUFSD Community. 

The Board of Education held a meeting on Tuesday, May 6, 2025; here is the landing page to find the agenda, and here is the link to the video of the meeting. Following is a recap. 

All items on the Consent Agenda were approved unanimously by the BoE. The public hearing of the 2025-26 school budget was opened and closed without any questions or comments.

Dr. Sampson presented an update on elementary scheduling. He referenced findings of the district consultant and questions/challenges to making scheduling changes. This includes, but is not limited to, preserving instructional blocks and managing access to specials. Dr. Sampson expects the district to agree on a model later this month. 

Dr. Sampson’s full presentation can be found in Section 5 of the agenda for the May 6th meeting.

The next Board of Education meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 20th, at either 7:00 or 7:30 p.m. in the tiered classroom at MHS. (Specific time to follow.) Please also note that the 2025-26 school budget and BoE trustee election will be held on May 20th. 

 

 

 

 

 

The Board of Education held a meeting on Tuesday, April 22, 2025; here is the landing page to find the agenda, and here is the link to the video of the meeting. Following is a recap. 

All items on the Consent Agenda were approved unanimously by the BoE. The Board also adopted the 2025-26 school year budget and property tax report card. There were no questions or comments posed during the opportunity for public comment.  

During his Superintendent Report, Dr. Sampson shared that Jonathan Powers was selected as the Westchester Lower Hudson Council for the Social Studies Outstanding Teacher Award. Mr. Powers was nominated by fellow teacher Andy Scopp. Dr. Sampson will discuss elementary scheduling and related challenges in the upcoming meeting on May 6, 2025. 

 

 

Hello to all members of the MUFSD Community

The Board of Education held a meeting on Tuesday, March 4, 2025; here is the  agenda and video of the meeting, followed by a recap. 

All resolutions were approved unanimously by the BoE; attachments and descriptions are available on the BoardDocs agenda.

Assistant Superintendent for Business Sylvia Fassler-Wallach shared information related to the 2025-26 school year budget as part of an ongoing series of budget-related presentations. She provided a detailed look at district revenues. Ms. Fassler-Wallach’s full presentation can be found on the agenda for the March 4th meeting.

Dr. Sampson will present additional information about the budget at the Board of Education meeting on March 18, 2025. Commencing March 19, a series of PTA-sponsored meetings will be held at each of the district’s six schools. All community members are welcome to attend. The meetings begin at 9:00 a.m., except for the meeting at Hommocks, which begins at 6:30 p.m. Spanish translation will be available for the meetings at MAS and Hommocks. Dates are as follows: 

MAS –  April 3 *      

Murray – March 19

Central – April 1

Chatsworth – April 8

HMX – April 9 *

MHS – April 23

* Spanish translation available

The next Board of Education meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 18th at 7:00 p.m. in the tiered classroom at MHS. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hello to all members of the MUFSD Community

The Board of Education held a meeting on Tuesday, February 25, 2025; here is the agenda and video of the meeting followed by a recap. 

High School students Bella & Walker provided updates on recent events.

All resolutions were approved unanimously by the BoE; attachments and descriptions are available on the BoardDocs agenda.

Dr. Sampson presented Framework to Action: Strategic Budgeting, during which he spoke about the district’s Strategic Framework that has been under development for several months. This framework has been informed through community surveys and work sessions, as well as significant input from faculty, staff and students. It also aligns with future-forward recommendations recently shared by the NYS Blue Ribbon Commission. Dr. Sampson specified that the strategic framework differs from a traditional five-year strategic plan in that it is not stagnant; rather, it creates a system in which the district operates and clarity on what we value/how we work. It relies upon continuous improvement and is measurable from the onset.

Stakeholder input led the administration to identify three priorities: personalization, mentorship, and expertise. A task force composed of about 20 faculty across schools convened to flesh out the theories of action for each of the three priorities - ensuring that actionable approaches are identified and can be applied to all students. 

Dr. Sampson connected the Strategic Framework to the development of the 2025-26 annual school budget. (Note that the superintendent's budget has not yet been finalized. Adoption of the 2025-26 budget by the BoE is scheduled for the meeting on April 22, 2025.) Dr. Sampson discussed how the focus on personalization, expertise, and mentorship drives programmatic designs and staffing requests. He said that the budget also responds to repeated requests from the community for curriculum designed for choice, as well as from faculty and staff for coaching. A few short-term enhancements to course offerings include the availability of four additional AP classes by the end of next year, along with the opportunity for some to be open to 10th grade students. Additionally, he stated that the budget must account for compliance metrics and mandates and then address gaps in these areas, as well as to modernize the district’s use of technology.

Dr. Sampson’s full presentation can be found in Section 7 of the agenda for the Feb. 25th meeting.

The next Board of Education meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 4th at 7:00 p.m. in the tiered classroom at MHS. 

The Board of Education held a meeting on Tuesday, February 4, 2025; here is the agenda and video of the meeting. 

All resolutions were approved unanimously by the BoE; attachments and descriptions are available on the BoardDocs agenda. 

Assistant Superintendent for Business Sylvia Fassler-Wallach delivered a budget recap, which included a review of completed, current and planned projects under the purview of the business office. The presentation can be found in section four (4) of the agenda.  

In his Superintendent’s Report, Dr. Sampson stated that programmatic updates have been presented at recent Board meetings as the district moves closer to presenting the proposed 2025-26 budget. (A reminder that all meetings can be viewed here.) Dr. Sampson will present at the Tuesday, February 25 meeting, focusing on the alignment between the strategic framework and budgetary requests related to student programming. The Superintendent's budget will then be presented to the Board on Tuesday, March 4. The attached document provides the complete list of budget-related dates.

The next meeting will be held on February 25 at 7:30 PM in the Tiered Classroom at MHS.

 

The Board of Education held a meeting on Tuesday, January 28, 2025; here is the agenda and video of the meeting. 

The meeting commenced with students performing the song, Freddy My Love, to provide a preview of the upcoming MHS musical Grease. The musical will be staged in the McLean Auditorium at MHS on February 6, 7, & 8. All in the community are welcome to purchase tickets!

All resolutions were approved unanimously by the BoE; attachments and descriptions are available on the BoardDocs agenda. Of note, the Board approved the 2025-2026 school year calendar, which can be viewed at the top of this page on the district’s website. 

In his Superintendent’s Report, Dr. Sampson spoke about the ongoing work to develop the proposed 2025-26 budget and how the strategic framework, which is in the final stages of development, drives what is included in the budget. Among the areas of focus for the administrative team are programmatic designs and staffing needs/implications. (Note that Dr. Sampson will present how the strategic framework ties into the budget at the February 25th BoE meeting, and Assistant Superintendent for Business Sylvia Fassler-Wallach will deliver the formal budget presentation at the March 4th BoE meeting.) Dr. Sampson also shared the next steps for the Strategic Framework Internal Steering Committee, which is meeting twice in February. 

Dr. Sampson addressed some possible concerns about and reactions to recent events at the national level and how the district is “staying the course” and is deliberate in addressing matters. Should the district need to make any changes, that information will immediately be communicated to the community. Finally, he provided an update on the Hommocks’ principal search.

The Reports/Discussion section featured Assistant Superintendent for Student Support Services Dr. Tamar Walker along with Directors of Special Education Cori Wagner and John Boniello. The team reviewed several data points that illustrate the volume of students receiving services, the scope of services being provided, and the shifting needs for services. 

The full presentations can be found on the agenda.

Hello to all members of the MUFSD Community,

The Board of Education held a meeting on Tuesday, December 3, 2024; here is the agenda and video of the meeting. 

The meeting commenced with a performance by PACE students preparing for Soundscapes on December 12, 13 & 14 in the PACE Theater.

All resolutions were approved unanimously by the BoE; attachments and descriptions are available on the BoardDocs agenda.

Margaret Käufer, Chief Visionary Officer of the STEM Alliance, and MAS teacher Kerry Daly presented on the Co-op Summer Camp 2024:

• Elementary Program, Middle School Program and Rise Leadership for students entering 7th and 8th grade
• This past summer there were 29 MHS alum or current students working as counselors

• Teachers use project-based learning 
• Campers receive swim lessons

Dr. Moore Presented Part Two of the Assessment Presentation:

• Introduced a new methodology for making data comparisons with other school districts
• Shared performance comparison with Westchester County and NYS in ELA & Math
• How to use data/site-based data analysis for goals-setting
• Regular meetings with building leaders to assess areas that need improvement

Dr. Moore’s full presentation can be found on the agenda.

 

The next Board of Education meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 17th at 7 PM.

 

Hello to all members of the MUFSD Community,

The Board of Education held a meeting on Tuesday, November 12, 2024; here is the agenda and video of the meeting. 

The meeting commenced with a wonderful a cappella student performance of “Sweet Caroline” led by Ms. Crozier and Ms. Heyman. The group was promoting the upcoming a cappella festival in which they participated on November 16th.

Student liaisons Bella Pianko and Walker Olsen provided a recap of recent events at the high school, including Battle of the Classes, Halloween festivities, the Fall play from PACE, and a sports update. FBLA recently hosted the Fall District Meeting and 3 MHS students have been elected to district positions. Bella and Walker highlighted The Globe’s recent special election issue and announced an upcoming holiday issue. Finally, the social events committee is rolling out a Spelling Bee, which they noted is just for fun, and all are invited. 

All resolutions were approved unanimously by the BoE; attachments and/or descriptions are available on the BoardDocs agenda (link above).

Superintendent Dr. Sampson provided updates on the following:

• The search process is underway for a Hommocks Middle School principal to replace Mr. Borsari. Search consultants from Hazard Young and Attea (HYA) have been meeting with students, staff and faculty to gather information
• The application for the Seal of Biliteracy is now available; there are at least 40 high school students who are interested and eligible to apply 
• The Superintendent’s Conference Day was very productive. Principals facilitated consultancy protocols where teachers shared instructional problems of practice and other faculty members provided feedback to help problem-solve. He thanked those teachers who stepped up to share their work with their peers. Department meetings were also held at each school.

Dr. Moore, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction, presented on the continued work on the Strategic Framework, integrating staff, student and community feedback. He highlighted three areas that will guide the district’s process of continual improvement. These include:

1. Mentorship
2. Personalization
3. Expertise

Dr. Moore’s full presentation can be found on the agenda.

The next Board of Education meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 3rd at 7 PM.

Hello to all members of the MUFSD Community,

The Board of Education held a meeting on Tuesday, October 8, 2024; here is the agenda and video of the meeting. We hope you’ll enjoy a special performance from the MHS Chamber Orchestra at the start of the meeting. These student musicians are clearly dedicated to their craft and meet at 7:15am several times each week to rehearse.

The majority of the Board meeting was dedicated to recognizing faculty and staff who received tenure. Administrators from each school, as well as Health, PE & Athletics, spoke about each of the following individuals, describing the skills and attributes that make them such valued members of the MUFSD team. Congratulations to all tenure recipients!

Ayala, Yaritza

Pelaez, Carolina

Asanza Garrido, Aaron

Buderman, Kenneth

Gaudio, Lauren

Huang, Yachi (Erin)

Ryan, Elliott

Cereola, Derek

Athanasoulias, Candace

Colamaria, Kathleen (Kate)

Gorman, Taylor

Kennedy, Erin

Martucci, Albert

O’Byrne, Peter

Babcock, Amanda

Aversa, Melissa

Assistant Superintendent for Business Sylvia Fassel-Wallach introduced the MUFSD external auditor to present the results of the Independent Auditor’s Report. The Board approved a motion to accept the report, as well as a motion to accept the proposal from a construction management firm to oversee the work outlined in the 2024 Capital Project. (Voters approved the Capital Project in May.)

Superintendent Dr. Sampson announced that the MUFSD has been accepted into the League of Innovative Schools. He also shared that he has met with the elementary school admin teams to discuss scheduling and future plans. Dr. Sampson reminded the community that a forum will be held on October 15 to discuss and obtain input on the district’s strategic framework, followed by the formation of a steering committee. 

The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, in the Tiered Classroom at MHS The agenda can be found on Board Docs.

Hello to all members of the MUFSD Community,

The Board of Education held a meeting on Tuesday, September 17, 2024; here is the agenda and video of the meeting. 

The Board began by sharing condolences to the family of Carol Phillips, a beloved and long-standing member of the Central School community, who passed away suddenly.

Student representative Bella Pianko provided a recap of events from the first week of school, including freshman orientation and the first football game. She also provided updates on the upcoming high school musical auditions, Club Fair, athletic competitions, school spirit, Student Counsel, Tiger 5’s, and the new issue of the student-developed newspaper, The Globe.

All items on the Consent Agenda and Resolutions were approved unanimously by the BoE; attachments and/or descriptions are available on the BoardDocs agenda (link above).

Dr. Jeff Moore, Assistant Superintendent of Instruction and Curriculum, provided a presentation on Districtwide Assessments (available here), including a breakdown of data across various demographic categories in ELA and Math proficiency, as well as performance on Regents and Advanced Placement exams. Dr. Moore explained that a core goal of reviewing these assessments is to provide administrators and faculty with information to impact lessons and learning and identify areas where teachers may benefit from additional professional learning/training. Dr. Moore advised that questions raised by the Board will be brought to the Curriculum Committee and that additional presentations will be given on this topic in the future.

In his Superintendent’s Update, Dr. Sampson reminded the community about work to update the district’s vision and mission and complete a strategic framework. He reported that an invitation was sent out for the MAMAROnext Community Conversation scheduled for October 15. 

The next Board of Education meeting, a Study Session, will be held on October 8, 2024, at 7 PM in the tiered classroom at MHS.

Hello to all members of the MUFSD Community.

The Board of Education held a meeting on Tuesday, September 3, 2024; here is the agenda and video of the meeting. The Board unanimously approved the District Wide Emergency Management Plan, attached to the meeting agenda. 

During his Superintendent Report, Dr. Sampson reported a smooth first day of school, thanking the Facilities Department for their hard work in preparing the schools. He briefly reviewed the new cell phone and smart watch rules and encouraged all to review and follow drop-off and pick-up procedures. Dr. Sampson provided a topline report about a few aspects of student assessment data; the full report will be the focus of the Sept. 17th BoE meeting. 

Finally, Dr. Sampson provided an enrollment update for the district. Three key findings are:

• An upward trend in total enrollment over three years
• Peak enrollment at the high school level in recent decades
• Kindergarten enrollment in alignment with lower birth rate in 2019

Further, the expansion of K-5 programs requiring additional instructional spaces was discussed. The full report can also be found on the meeting agenda.

The next Board of Education meeting, a Study Session, will be held on September 17, 2024 in the tiered classroom at MHS.