Gardner School Committee Welcomes New Member and Elects Officers for 2026

Overview: At the Gardner School Committee meeting, members reorganized for the 2026 calendar year by electing officers and welcoming a new member, Paul Cormier. Rachel Cormier was reelected as vice chair, John LaFreniere was chosen as finance officer, and Anne Hurst was appointed as secretary. Additionally, Robert Swartz and Jennifer Zlotnik Pelavin were selected as alternate finance officers.

Community Education Council District 25 Discusses New Workshops and NYC Kids Rise Program

Overview: The Community Education Council District 25 meeting, originally set for December but held on January 6, covered significant educational initiatives. Key discussions included a new series of family engagement workshops by “Own Sutra,” details of the NYC Kids Rise Safe for College program, and initiatives to enhance student engagement through sports and digital safety education.

River Vale School Board Faces Budget Challenges Amid Rising Health Benefit Costs

Overview: The River Vale School Board meeting focused on financial challenges, primarily the sharp increase in health benefit costs, which are projected to exceed the budget cap by $1.2 million. This increase presents a considerable concern for the district’s financial planning and necessitates exploring alternative revenue sources and potential cuts. The board also received positive feedback from a recent audit, confirming the district’s financial stability and security, and elected new leadership for the upcoming term.

Lakeville School Board Navigates Boundary Changes Amidst Governance Challenges

Overview: The Lakeville Area School Board’s recent meeting was marked by discussions on proposed changes to school attendance boundaries and internal governance challenges. The board thoroughly examined boundary adjustments necessitated by district growth and ongoing concerns about board functionality following an investigation into allegations of misconduct among members.

Clifton School Board Welcomes Youngest Member Amid Leadership Elections

Overview: The Clifton School Board meeting held on January 6, 2026, was marked by the swearing-in of new board members, including the youngest elected official, Elias Ragsdale, and the election of Judith A. Bassford as the board president. The board grappled with electing a vice president.