South Orangetown Central School District

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Message from Board President Steven Finn

As SOCSD moves into autumn, we are witnessing the beautiful change of leaves and the energy of our students settling back into their routines. Our athletes can be seen hard at work on our fields and in our gyms, proudly representing the Dutchmen.

I’m pleased to report that our Capital Improvements Project work on the SOMS Nurse’s Office and outdoor classrooms districtwide is nearing completion. This progress marks a significant step forward, and we are already preparing for next summer’s projects. The lessons we’ve learned throughout this process will guide our efforts as we strive to enhance our facilities and provide the best environments for our students and staff.

Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our shared mission.

Board Work in Progress

The information below reflects business conducted during the September 17 meeting; September 3 work was captured in the September Board Brief.

Capital Construction: Representatives from the District’s architectural and construction management firms presented a Construction Update at the September 17 Board meeting.

Contractors achieved substantial completion of Phase 1, Year 1 Capital Improvements Project construction, valued at roughly $8 million, in just seven weeks this summer. Work is still being done to finish outstanding “punch list” items on projects at all four schools. Capital Improvements Project construction is funded through the Capital Improvements Bond which was approved by voters in March 2022. The Facilities Planning Committee is reviewing how to improve upon schedules and systems for Summer 2025.

Construction on the South Orangetown Middle School Nurse’s Office is progressing on schedule for substantial completion in November. This minor capital project, along with the installation of a new clocks/PA/lockdown system at William O. Schaefer Elementary School and district-wide security camera additions and upgrades, was funded through the 2023-24 budget approved by voters in May 2023.

Appointments: At its September 17 meeting, the Board appointed Maureen Clancy to serve as District Treasurer, effective September 25, 2024.

Upcoming Meetings/Workshops

Board of Education Regular Meeting
October 1 at 7:30PM
South Orangetown Middle School Library

Board of Education Regular Meeting
October 15 at 7:30PM
South Orangetown Middle School Library

Meeting dates, times and locations are subject to change. Be sure to check the District’s e-Backpack webpage for the most up-to-date information. Board meetings are live streamed (view-only) on the SOCSD BOE YouTube channel; workshops are not live streamed. Board meeting agendas, minutes and audio are posted online at BoardDocs. Board policies are posted online at BoardPolicyOnline.

Questions? Send an email to the Board of Education at feedback@socsd.org.

The Board Brief is a monthly communication from the South Orangetown Central School District Board of Education.