On April 2, 2003, representative leaders of the community, that included myself were invited to attend a meeting conducted by Dr. Maria Palandra, Superintendent of Schools of the Elmont U.F.S.D. This meeting was presented with the upmost professionalism and clarity about important issues affecting our community.
An issue discussed was the districts safety plan. I was grateful to be aware in detail of the steps our schools are doing to protect the children. The district is taking every measure they can take in reassuring that the children are safe and well cared for. Something that everyone in Elmont should be proud of.
Another issue was that of student enrollment. During the school year that is a high transfer rate of students going in and out of the district. This also includes students coming from other countries. These are challenges brought to our district and more of this and the exemplary job the district is doing of teaching children of all walks of life.
Discussing the districts test results then followed the meeting. Our schools are doing very well and the results are on a level comparable to other schools. This also taking account of our budget. Elmont U.F.S.D. has one of the lowest per pupil costs on Long Island.
It is clear to me and many in the community that our schools in Elmont are going on the right track because they are safe and are producing higher academic achievement. We as a community must stand together to support the continuation of the positive advancements in our schools. The children, our future, need us to support them.
