Dear Islip Families:

I am writing to inform you that the proposed 2026-2027 school budget was not approved by voters in yesterday's annual budget vote. The voters of this community spoke, and we hear you. A failed budget is not simply a number; it is a message. We take that message seriously, and we are committed to responding to it with the transparency, rigor, and accountability this community has every right to expect.

WHAT HAPPENS NOW:

Under New York State law, when a school budget is defeated by voters, the Board of Education has several options. It may resubmit the same budget or a revised budget to voters for a second vote, or it may adopt a contingency budget. A second budget vote must be held within the timeframe established by state law.

THE TIMELINE:

The Board of Education will hold a public meeting on Friday, May 29, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. in the Islip High School auditorium, at which time a new proposed budget will be presented. Official notice of this meeting will be posted shortly. We encourage your attendance and participation. Additionally, on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 7:00 p.m., the Board of Education will hold a public hearing on the newly proposed budget. The vote on this newly proposed budget will take place on Tuesday, June 16, 2026.

MOVING FORWARD:

Our community is seeking greater transparency and more specific information throughout the budget development process. We are committed to sharing budget information in plain language, with specific numbers, clear explanations, and the detail you are seeking.

In the coming days, via ParentSquare and our social media accounts, we will share information and more detail about the newly proposed budget as soon as it is available. I encourage you to contact us directly with your questions, concerns, and insights.

Sincerely,
Dennis P. O'Hara, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools