January 22, 2009

Dear Community Members,

You may or may not have heard that there is some talk about reorganizing the elementary schools by grade level rather than neighborhood. As I'm sure you know, we are facing some very difficult economic times and in looking at the enrollments, Mr. Geoghan and I have estimated that a change like this could save the district nearly $450,000. Such a change would neither diminish program nor increase class size significantly.

What is important to know at this time is that it is not a fait accompli. My recommendation to the Board is only to form a committee of teachers, parents, and administrators to look at the matter more seriously. That recommendation will be made in public at Tuesday night's Board meeting at Nassau. The only thing I can say for certain at this time is that if such a change is made, Hagan would house four grade levels and Nassau two because of the size of the buildings. All other details would be decided upon by the committee.

I will be attending the PTA meeting at Hagan on Monday, February 2nd to address comments or questions. All community members are welcome to attend. If you cannot attend that meeting, Mr. Geoghan and I will be at Barnes and Noble at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 4th.

If you have any questions in the meantime, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Lois Colletta , Ed.D.

Superintendent of Schools