Our guests this week were Paul Finch, Superintendent of Red Hook Central Schools and Bruce Martin, Chief Financial Officer.
 
Paul Finch started by noting that in 2019, Dutchess County recognized the Red Hook Schools for the highest graduation rate (97%) in the county.  He also noted that a new guidance counselor was added in the Elementary school program and a new smart device policy (designed to reduce cell phone use on campus) was initiated.
 
The budget for the coming year was developed from November to March (pre-pandemic) and anticipated a small increase in State Aid. It also anticipated two capital projects – a new roof and windows at Mill Rd school and new windows and vents at the high school. This was in addition to the building of the auditorium at the high school. The 2021 budget reflects a shift to limit costs using the April State Aid estimate. Paul and Bruce believe that cuts to that aid will come, Efforts are being undertaken to anticipate state aid cuts and a possible no vote on the budget. Staffing cuts are being considered – where opportunities present themselves, as low kindergarten enrollment may enable a cut of one class of first graders, and the retirement of one German teacher and fewer enrollees may enable a smaller German language section. As of May 15, the state has given no guidance about cuts in aid. The governor is waiting for a response from the Federal government. The proposed budget is 2.12% higher than the previous year; the tax levy is up 2.97%, and still tax cap compliant
 
The high school graduation ceremony will take place on June 30 at the Hyde Park drivein theater across from the FDR House and Library. There will be 160 graduates, but the theater only allows 200 cars. The cars will be decorated and horn honking will be encouraged.
 
Rev. Fred Cartier, photographer, provided the complete group in a single screen shot of the meeting. We are, from top left to bottom right: Jen Van Voorhis, Rev. Fred, Bud Weaver, Tim Lynch, Linda Greenblatt, Susan Simon, Bruce Martin, Susan Ezrati, Carl Dowden, Paul Finch, Hon. Jonah Triebwasser, Chris Chale, Rev. Michael Shafer. Rebecca Kent, and Rob Latimer