Leadership Succession
Active
55 meetings ·
2024-01-11 to 2026-10-01
Administrative transitions including retirement of Assistant Superintendent John Griffith and appointment of Dr. Laura Dubac at $238,000/year. Prompted board discussion about updating 30-year-old succession planning Policy 9230.
Timeline (55 meetings)
Jan 11, 2024
Board of Education
CHHS Round Robin Course Selection
PVC & CHHS Winter Concerts/CET Sing-along
Wendy Armstrong's Passion Project: The Corridor of Courage at PVC
Jokes
Report: 2.4 Assistant Superintendent for Business Report
Assistant Superintendent for Business De…
Action: 3.2 Creation of New Position - Assistant Superintendent of Pupil Personnel Services
That the Board of Education approve the resolution as follows:
WHEREAS, the Board of Education has determined to restructure the administrative positions wi…
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Ms. DePaul be appointed as Assistant Superintendent of Pupil Personnel Services, effective immediately, and that she will continue to receive all terms and conditions of employment as she did as Director of Pupil Personne…
Motion by Joshua Diamond, second by Omar Mayyasi. Final Resolution: Motion Carried
Yes: Sarah Carrier, Joshua Diamond, Omar Mayyasi, Ana Teague, Theo Oshiro, Anamika Bhatnagar
On the question: Assistant Superintendent for Business, Denise Harringt…
Jan 18, 2024
Board of Education
Consent Agenda
Action (Consent): 3.1 Consent Agenda Approval
Resolution: That the Board of Education approves all the items on the consent agenda.
Motion by Omar Mayyasi, second by Ana Teague.
On the question: Board Trustee Anamika Bhatnagar aske…
Speakers included PVC Principal Michael Plotkin, Assistant Superintendent John Griffiths, Croton-Harmon High School Principal Dr. Laura Dubak, World Languages Teacher Lisa Percoco, 3rd grade teacher Elizabeth Sofroniou, CHHS Guidance Counselor Zoha N…
Feb 1, 2024
Board of Education
Village Police Advisory Committee
SELC Parent University
Boys' Volleyball Team's Section 1 Sportsmanship Award
Christine Drago's Appointment as Director of Health, Wellness, Physical Education and Athletics
The new Self-Defense Phys Ed Elective a…
Motion by Neal Haber, second by Omar Mayyasi.
On the question: Assistant Superintendent John Griffiths noted that the number of holidays that had to be considered was significant. An uninterrupted week of break is required of one of our bargaining …
Discussion: 7.2 Board Reports Board Trustee Anamika Bhatnagar reported that the advocacy committee has not met, and will be participating in round tables with Dana Levenberg and Pete Harkham to learn about legislative progress. The LEGC legislative f…
Feb 27, 2024
Board of Education
New Business
Action: 2.1 Non-Instructional Appointment - Director of School Health Services
On the question: Board of Education Vice President Neal Haber questioned the title of the appointment. Assistant Superintendent John Griffiths confirmed tha…
Mar 7, 2024
Board of Education
Student Trustee Ex Officio Amelia Sackman reported on the following topics:
Band performed at Universal Studios
Sophomores to visit Holocaust museum
SFC update
National Hispanic Club fair in April
Interact Club raising money by duct taping princ…
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Education of the Croton-Harmon Union Free School District approve the Agreement with the County of Westchester for the use of certain voting machines and equipment and authorizes and empowers the Super…
Mar 21, 2024
Board of Education
Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Personnel Services Rachel DePaul presented the proposed PPS budget for 2024-25. Highlights included specialized programs, embedded therapeutic services and the new community family liaison, multi-tiered system of su…
Apr 4, 2024
Board of Education
Superintendent Stephen Walker and Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harrington-Cohen presented a summary of the 2024-2025 budget.
Topics included:
Budget development timeline
Budget priorities
Vision Map goals
Making systemic change
…
Motion by Omar Mayyasi, second by Neal Haber. On the question: Board Trustee Omar Mayyasi confirmed the capacity at 50 students. Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harrington-Cohen confirmed and explained the bidding process and proposals …
Ms. Teague asked how would we make up the difference? Ms. Harrington-Cohen responded that we may not need to based on the state's budget. The lottery will open 4/11, close 5/3, and the drawing will be 5/9. Ms. Bhatnagar questioned differences in sta…
Motion by Neal Haber, second by Ana Teague.
On the question: Board Trustee Joshua Diamond asked if we encountered less asbestos in the roof projects than expected. Per Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harrington-Cohen, yes we did; we ha…
That the Board of Education approves the intermunicipal agreement between the Village of Croton-On-Hudson and the Croton-Harmon Union Free School District for the use and maintenance of Firefighter's Field as presented.
Motion by Omar Mayyasi, secon…
Motion by Omar Mayyasi, second by Neal Haber.
On the question: Board Trustee Ana Teague asked if there was overlap in instruction with regards to item 8.2. Assistant Superintendent John Griffiths confirmed that this was correct. Board Trustee Omar…
May 9, 2024
Board of Education
Library Budget
Discussion: 2.1 Croton Free Library Budget Presentation
Jesse Bourdon, Director of the Croton Free Library, presented the library's proposed budget of $962,222.
3. Public Budget Hearing
Action, Discussion: 3.1 Open Public Budget He…
Jun 6, 2024
Board of Education
Motion by Omar Mayyasi, second by Ana Teague.
On the question: Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harrington-Cohen noted that it was an extensive bidding process, and that, despite SED lags, the team was able to put this bid together and …
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Education hereby authorizes the transfer of funds in the amount of $125,000 from the General Fund to reduce the operating deficit of the School Lunch Fund; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Superintendent…
Jun 20, 2024
Board of Education
Motion by Ana Teague, second by Joshua Diamond.
On the question: Assistant Superintendent John Griffiths explained that Regents rating day announced as June 27 instead of June 25 as expected. Two student contact days needed to be removed. As discu…
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education of the Croton-Harmon Union Free School District approves and authorizes the following budgetary increases to account for the unanticipated additional revenue gained from a premium on the BAN …
Jul 11, 2024
Board of Education
$29,900 per annum
Internal Auditor, R.S. Abrams & Company, LLP, $23,500 per annum
Claims Auditor, Peter Drexler, $9,408 per annum
Assistant Superintendent of Pupil Personnel Services, Census Taker (no additional stipend)
Assistant Sup…
Resolution: RESOLVED: that the Superintendent of Schools be authorized to certify payrolls to the proper authorities on the occasions required, and the Assistant Superintendent for Business be authorized to adjust payrolls, in accordance with all bar…
1. Croton-Harmon High School with the Principal as Bursar: not to exceed $100.00
2. Pierre Van Cortlandt Middle School with the Principal as Bursar: not to exceed $100.00
3. Carrie E. Tompkins Elementary School with the Principal as Bursar: not t…
Resolution: RESOLVED: That, in accordance to with Policy 8334, the Board of Education authorizes the following individuals to use the District's Chase MasterCard credit cards during the 2024-2025 school year as presented.
Mr. Stephen Walker, Superin…
Action: 6.02 Side Letter of Agreement - CTA
RESOLVED: That the Board of Education approves the side letter of agreement between the Croton-Harmon UFSD and the Croton Teachers' Association Bargaining Unit as presented.
Motion by Joshua Diamond, seco…
Geradi Baseball Award 2024-2025
RESOLVED: That the Board of Education approves the establishment of the Michael J. Geradi Baseball Award at the Croton-Harmon High School for 2024-2025.
Motion by Sarah Carrier, second by Joshua Diamond.
On the ques…
RESOLVED: That the Board of Education approves the Reciprocal Emergency Evacuation and Temporary Shelter Agreement between Croton-Harmon Union Free School District and Hendrick Hudson Central School District as presented.
Motion by Sarah Carrier, se…
Action: 7.04 Instructional Personnel Recommendation
That the Board of Education approves the 2024-25 part-time instructional personnel appointment of Nancy Rimoli, .8 AIS, Elementary Teacher, Carrie E. Tompkins Elementary School, (MA+15 Step 12).
M…
Aug 8, 2024
Board of Education
Ed Riely spoke in support of the Teacher Aides and noted that how they are treated will set an example among other staff. He is concerned that the housing situation will affect the school district. District cannot discriminate against these schoolchi…
Motion by Sarah Carrier, second by Anamika Bhatnagar.
On the question: Board Trustee Neal Haber posed a question regarding the authorizations for applying monies to appropriated fund balance, etc. -- Is that different than previous? Assistant Supe…
Motion by Sarah Carrier, second by Anamika Bhatnagar.
On the question: Board Trustee asked if this was approved at a previous meeting. Assistant Superintendent John Griffiths responded affirmatively, noting that it is a change in assignment -- it …
July 11, 2024 Meeting Minutes
Motion by Sarah Carrier, second by Anamika Bhatnagar.
Final Resolution: Motion Carried
Yes: Sarah Carrier, Joshua Diamond, Neal Haber, Omar Mayyasi, Anamika Bhatnagar
7. Closing of the Meeting
Procedural: 7.1 Hearin…
Board Trustee Neal Haber noted that the Board should consider other avenues for informal discussion as well.
Board Trustee Sarah Carrier responded that the communications committee will be addressing this.
Ms. Bhatnagar noted that the advocacy comm…
Oct 10, 2024
Board of Education
We wanted about 45 school districts and discussing the status of where we are with other partners today. I believe there's probably six that it would be late. Two years ago, I had a situation where the assistant superintendent for business is probabl…
Oct 24, 2024
Board of Education
thank you Ana good evening everyone thank you to everyone who's here in person thank you to everyone all of our Tigers who are watching from home thank you particularly to the phenomenal members of The Faculty who are here this evening to share some …
Rachel DePaul, Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Personnel Services
Leandra Ramirez, School Psychologist, CHHS
Cassandra Lella, Teacher, PVC
Carmen Rosario, Social Worker
Eva Thaddeus, Community Aide Worker
Nicole DeMascio, Teacher, PVC
Robin …
Nov 7, 2024
Board of Education
Motion by Sarah Carrier, second by Theo Oshiro.
On the question: Board Trustee Neal Haber asked for change order clarification. Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harrington-Cohen explained that all three change orders relate to construc…
Nov 21, 2024
Board of Education
Tracey Finan - PVC Math Teacher
Philip Ranieri - CHHS Math Teacher
Derrick Davis - CHHS Math Teacher
Isabella Zappa - CHHS Math Teacher
Noah Gallagher - CHHS Science Teacher
Zhanna Glazenburg - CHHS Science Teacher
Jamie Ro…
Dec 5, 2024
Board of Education
good evening I'm Michelle minov at 17 blary I'd like to begin by thanking superintendent Walker tonight for speaking at AA hosted meeting earlier this week it was a long and difficult discussion that covered challenging topic revolving around anti-Se…
Assistant Superintendent Denise Harrington-Cohen added that the 30-day comment period was opened. No questions were received.
Action: 3.3 Adjourn the Public Hearing on the District Wide Safety & Emergency Management Plan
Public hearing adjourned a…
Dec 19, 2024
Board of Education
Superintendent Stephen Walker noted that the team is aware. He will ask specifically about insurance and will put it in the weekly notifications to the BOE.
Board President Ana Teague mentioned concerns about safety issues.
Assistant Superintenden…
Consent Agenda
Action (Consent): 3.1 Consent Agenda Approval
Resolution: RESOLVED: That the Board of Education hereby approves all the items under the consent agenda.
Motion by Sarah Carrier, second by Anamika Bhatnagar.
Board Trustee Neal Haber …
Jan 9, 2025
Board of Education
now shifting wildly to U an entirely different topic that of regionalization so just to give a little bit of background and anticipation of a board discussion around this this is not a cro initiative this is instead a state initiative coming out of t…
thank you Isabelle and we hope you do come back and you get to definitely for that and definitely one of these board meetings I'm sure thank you so much and we now will move on to item 2.6 the assistant superintendent to business repor presentation
here we go with expenditure assumptions so some of our assumptions looking forward into the budget season certainly we have our contractual Personnel wage and benefit increases we have obligations to our collective bargaining agreements Etc that is a…
thank you we had it already miss it people lined up recommended action we have resolved that upon the recommendation of the superintendent of schools Board of Education here by Grant tenure to Rachel depal assistant superintendent of pupil personnel …
on December 17th policy committee met went through a variety of different policies all of these are business office related policies that were reviewed and discussed with the system superintendent for business you will see they relate to revisions to…
Mr. Walker noted that this doesn't have to be a one-size-fits-all process. There are a lot of kindred spirits out there for us in terms of other school districts that we can work with effectively.
The Board expressed its consensus that it concurred …
Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harrington-Cohen gave a 2025-26 budget development update including:
Budget Timeline
Revenue Assumptions
Expenditure Assumptions
Next Steps
Budget Presentation Schedule
Board Trustee Neal Haber a…
RESOLVED: That upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, the Board of Education hereby grants tenure to Rachel DePaul, (Administrator - Assistant Superintendent of Pupil Personnel Services tenure area), Croton-Harmon Union Free School…
RESOLVED: That the Board of Education hereby approves the proposed settlement for the Tax Certiorari of Matter of South Riverside Croton, LLC v. Assessor of the Town of Cortlandt, et al. (Sup. Ct. West. Co. Index No. 65153/22) as presented.
Motion b…
Concerns are not minimized, dealing with bias of any form will continue to be discussed.
Discussion: 6.3 Polling of the Board
Board Trustee Sarah Carrier spoke about upcoming LHEC & WestPut SBA meetings on regionalization and the governors' budget.…
Feb 4, 2025
Board of Education
Work Session
Presentation: 2.1 The Pulse of our School: Analyzing Climate Data
The presentation on The Pulse of our School was introduced by Rachel DePaul, Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Personnel Services. The following administrators presente…
Motion by Sarah Carrier, second by Neal Haber.
On the question: Board Trustee Joshua Diamond asked if the amendment concerned the date change. Assistant Superintendent John Griffiths confirmed that it did.
Board Trustee Neal Haber asked if the st…
Feb 13, 2025
Board of Education
moving on to item 2.4 about assistant superintendent for business Denise Harrington Cohen be an update on 2025 2026 Revenue budget
Report: 2.4 2025-2026 Budget Presentation (Revenues)
Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harrington-Cohen gave an update on the budget development focusing on Revenues:
Governor’s Executive Budget & State Aid Proposal
State Aid Comparison…
On the question: Board Trustee Neal Haber recognized work of the calendar committee. He noted that, while we don't provide transportation to private schools on days our district is not open, we do provide transportation to BOCES if open. Is the BOC…
Board President Ana Teague registered for the 3/14 SuperEval workshop, hosted by NYSSBA, and gave a shout out to winter sports athletes celebrating senior games.
Discussion: 8.4 Items Needed for Next Board of Education Meeting
Assistant Superintend…
Feb 27, 2025
Board of Education
Denise Harrington-Cohen, Assistant Superintendent for Business, introduced the 2025-2026 Budget presentation
Superintendent Stephen Walker presented the budget as it relates to the Vision Map.
Kelly Lent, Assistant Business Manager, presented the 2…
Mar 13, 2025
Board of Education
yeah what's up there's a lot going on it's a busy School District I attended the student faculty Congress meeting in L of Anica and Josh who were unable to attend on the 6 there was actually it's about was very thoughtful in presenting the budget por…
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Education of the Croton-Harmon Union Free School District approve the Agreement with the County of Westchester for the use of certain voting machines and equipment and authorizes and empowers the Super…
Mar 27, 2025
Board of Education
thank you good evening everyone who thank you to everyone who's here in person and thank you to those who are watching at home we have a robust and exciting presentation in front of us tonight so I'll speak briefly I just want to say that aside from …
Rachel DePaul, Assistant Superintendent of Pupil Personnel Services reported on the 2025-2026 Pupil Personnel budget.
Principals and Assistant Principals reported on their 2025-2026 building-level budgets.
Carrie E. Tompkins Elementary School:
Ker…
Apr 10, 2025
Board of Education
So wanted to begin just by there we are highlighting the what we call the budget roadmap. this is this is information that the board and the public have seen previously but I wanted to mention it primarily to say that the budget is truly a yearround …
Thanks. Okay. So, I just wanted to share this to kind of show you what brought us to this place today. As Superintendent Walker shared, this is a year-long endeavor with the hope of finding clarity also transparency for our community, opportunity for…
Thank you. The policy committee met I think on the 26th of March and reviewed a number of policies and we are reporting for first reading three policies. one of them is evaluation of instructional program where we've made certain changes Actually I'm…
Advocacy: Advocacy Committee Chair Theo Oshiro reported that the committee met 3/17, discussed state budgets from senate & assembly and cell phone policy updates. He asked about meetings with legislators, in that WPSBA typically puts together these m…
Apr 22, 2025
Board of Education
Ongoing Business
Action: 5.1 2025-2026 Property Tax Report Card
RESOLVED: That the Board of Education hereby approves the 2025-2026 Property Tax Report Card as presented.
Motion by Sarah Carrier, second by Neal Haber.
On the question: Assistant …
May 8, 2025
Board of Education
Thank you. Policies for second reading. There are three policies for second reading. each of them at our April meeting and the committee did not receive any comments or questions from the board or from the members of the community. policy 21, the fir…
Discussion: 2.1 Croton Free Library Budget Presentation
Jesse Bourdon, Director of the Croton Free Library, presented the library's proposed budget.
3. Public Budget Hearing
Action, Discussion: 3.1 Open Public Budget Hearing
The public budget hea…
Assistant Superintendent for PPS, Rachel DePaul added: 4/30: UPK drawing held, 81 entries, 56 seats to fill, 25 students are on the wait list currently, families have until 5/14 for final decisions.
Report: 4.2 Hearing of the Public
Mr. Ed Riely s…
On the question: Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harrington-Cohen noted that item 9.9 (Change Order) represents work not completed by original contractor, now awarded to 2nd contractor.
Final Resolution: Motion Carried
Yes: Anamika Bh…
Communication: Communication Committee Chair Sarah Carrier reported that the committee has not met since last meeting. The next meeting is to be scheduled. She thanked Assistant Superintendent Denise Harrington-Cohen, Technology/Communications Spec…
May 20, 2025
Board of Education
Motion by Sarah Carrier, second by Anamika Bhatnagar. Final Resolution: Motion Carried
Yes: Anamika Bhatnagar, Sarah Carrier, Joshua Diamond, Neal Haber, Omar Mayyasi, Theo Oshiro, Ana Teague
Action: 1.3 Approval of Agenda
RESOLVED: That the Board…
Jun 12, 2025
Board of Education
Report: 2.2 Hearing of the Public
Ed Riely spoke on the following topics: BOE celebrating the raising of the PRIDE flag at Croton Summerfest -- it's an abuse of public property, that should be decried, not celebrated. Disagreed with restrictions on …
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Education hereby authorizes the transfer of funds in the amount of $100,000 from the General Fund to reduce the operating deficit of the School Lunch Fund; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Superintendent…
Motion by Neal Haber, second by Joshua Diamond. Final Resolution: Motion Carried
Yes: Anamika Bhatnagar, Sarah Carrier, Joshua Diamond, Neal Haber, Theo Oshiro, Ana Teague
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8. Closing…
Jul 10, 2025
Board of Education
RESOLVED: That the Board of Education hereby approves all items under the consent agenda for the organizational meeting as presented.
Motion by Sarah Carrier, second by Omar Mayyasi.
On the question. Board Trustee Neal Haber notes that regarding i…
District Clerk, Denise Bisaccia
School District Treasurer, Barry Gamzon
School District Deputy Treasurer, Asst. Business Manager, at a stipend of $1,500
Central Treasurer for the Student Activities Funds, Asst. Business Manager (no additional s…
Financial Advisors, Capital Markets Advisors, fees pursuant to fee schedule. Claims Auditor, Peter Drexler, $9,408 per annum
Assistant Superintendent of Pupil Personnel Services, Census Taker (no additional stipend)
Assistant Superintendent of P…
RESOLVED: that the Superintendent of Schools be authorized to certify payrolls to the proper authorities on the occasions required, and the Assistant Superintendent for Business be authorized to adjust payrolls, in accordance with all bargaining unit…
1. Croton-Harmon High School with the Principal as Bursar: not to exceed $100.00
2. Pierre Van Cortlandt Middle School with the Principal as Bursar: not to exceed $100.00
3. Carrie E. Tompkins Elementary School with the Principal as Bursar: not t…
Mr. Stephen Walker, Superintendent of Schools, not to exceed $5,000.
Denise Harrington-Cohen, Assistant Superintendent for Business, not to exceed $5,000.
Rachel DePaul, Assistant Superintendent of Pupil Personnel Services, not to exceed $2,500. …
Policy 1901 Parent and Family Engagement
Policy 2160 School Board Member Ethics
Policy 2160-R School Board Member Ethics Regulation
Policy 2160-E School Board Member Code of Ethics Exhibit
Policy 5100 Attendance
Policy 5300 - Code of Conduct
P…
Regular Meeting
Procedural: 6.01 Hearing of the Public
Mr. Ed Riely spoke to welcome the new BOE member. He noted that conservatives are not well represented on the board...any fellow traveler is welcomed on the board. He also commended Assistant…
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Education hereby individually authorizes the Superintendent of Schools and Assistant Superintendent for Business to execute a settlement agreement to resolve and release the claims of Lorri Funtleyder and Bou…
Final Resolution: Motion Carried
Yes: Anamika Bhatnagar, Sarah Carrier, Neal Haber, Omar Mayyasi, Theo Oshiro, Allison Samuels, Ana Teague
Action: 9.03 Instructional Personnel Resignation
RESOLVED: That the Board of Education hereby approves the i…
Jenna DeGrazia, Teacher Aide at CET, effective end of day 6/27/25
Sarah Bianchi, Teacher Aide at CET, effective end of day 6/27/25
Madeline Sena, Teacher Aide at CET, effective end of day 6/27/25
Victoria Rosso, Teacher Aide at CET, effective e…
Aug 7, 2025
Board of Education
Motion by Omar Mayyasi, second by Neal Haber.
On the question: Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harrington-Cohen explained that the tax warrant sets the tax rate for the taxing jurisdiction (Yorktown and Cortlandt) and allows the receiv…
The law is also limited to school grounds.
Student Representative Filomena DiMarco reported that she and fellow students discuss situations where it would be necessary and agree that central storage would not work. She has been in enrichment period…
RESOLVED: That the Board of Education hereby accepts the resignation of Lori Anne Mihalczo, Teacher at Carrie E. Tompkins Elementary School, effective 8/11/25
Motion by Anamika Bhatnagar, second by Omar Mayyasi.
On the question: Board Trustee Neal…
Tompkins Elementary School; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Board of Education of Croton-Harmon Union Free School District authorizes the District’s Assistant Business Manager to sign the Grant Disbursement Agreement with DASNY for the above-ref…
7. Consent Agenda
Action (Consent): 7.1 Approval of Consent Agenda
RESOLVED: That the Board of Education hereby approves all the items under the Consent Agenda.
Motion by Omar Mayyasi, second by Anamika Bhatnagar.
On the question: Board Trustee …
Aug 21, 2025
Board of Education
Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harrington-Cohen gave kudos to the contractors, especially Pierotti and DeRosa who are working well together. She also recognized Director of Facilities Brad Kennedy and his technical ability.
She remind…
Oct 9, 2025
Board of Education
Reports
Report: 2.1 PKF O'Connor Davies, LLP - Audit Report
Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harrington-Cohen and Audit Committee member Omar Mayyasi presented the audit statement and results of the Audit Committee meeting earlier today…
On the question: Board Trustee Theo Oshiro asked for clarification on the facilities use fees.
Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harrington--Cohen responded that capital upgrades and lack of increasing rates in the past 5+ years dictated…
Oct 30, 2025
Board of Education
RESOLVED: That the Board of Education hereby appoints Denise Harrington-Cohen as District Clerk Pro Tem for the purpose of this meeting.
Motion by Neal Haber, second by Sarah Carrier
Final Resolution: Motion Carried
Yes: Anamika Bhatnagar, Sarah C…
Nov 20, 2025
Board of Education
Superintendent Stephen Walker introduced the work session topic.
The Power of Partnership: How ENL and ICT Create Equitable Learning Experiences
Presenters:
Rachel DePaul, Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Personnel Services
Danielle Van Tassel …
Action: 4.1 Donation - CHEF - Learning How to Ride a Bike
RESOLVED: That the Board of Education gratefully accepts a grant from the Croton-Harmon Education Foundation (CHEF) in the amount of $5,478.00 for the purchase of bicycles for Kindergarten an…
Ms. Teague reported that she connected with the Tarrytown BOE and they held their first Meet the BOE based on our information. She attended the auditorium ribbon-cutting and was very impressed by the school wide talent.
Ms. Bhatnagar concurred re: …
Dec 4, 2025
Board of Education
Student Faculty Congress had a meeting today where they discussed the involvement of students at BOE meetings.
The ping pong tournament is in the planning stages and there was discussion of creating a suggestion box.
3. Instructional Personnel
Act…
Motion by Neal Haber, second by Anamika Bhatnagar.
On the question: Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harrington-Cohen summarized this agreement. Stop Arm camera safety external cameras were approved in September of 2024. Bus Patrol offe…
The students looked proud to use it.
Assistant Superintendent John Griffiths agreed that it was the best HS concert he's seen from the quality and amount of repertoire. The students' musicianship really rose to the occasion.
Board Trustee Neal Hab…
Dec 18, 2025
Board of Education
Board President Ana Teague noted that she will work on a draft resolution supporting UPK funding.
Audit: Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harrington-Cohen reported that the Audit Committee will be meeting in January.
Board Development: …
Jan 8, 2026
Board of Education
Yeah, I [clears throat] just wanted to bring to everyone's attention to something that I wanted to inform that our esteemed Assistant Superintendent for Business, Denise Harrington-Cohen, has recently been elected selected to be a member of the Board…
You guys have been quite busy. I think communications and policy have gotten a lot done this year. Yeah. That's right. [snorts] If anyone has any liaison reports and that's specifically if you are a liaison aboard a board appointed liaison to anythin…
BOE President Ana Teague presented on the following topics:
Coming back from winter break
Beginning Budget Season
CET: Coaches Chat & Chew to meet re: math materials
CET Literacy Committee to meet on 1/26
CET PTA: next meeting is 3/19
PVC PTA: …
Policy: Committee Chair Neal Haber reported that they met on 12/16 and approved polices for first reading today, and changed some that had first readings, to second readings. The next meeting is 1/20, 1 pm.
Liaison Reports:
None
Report: 2.6 Assis…
On the question: Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harrington-Cohen noted that this opportunity was open to all NYSIR subscribers.
Board Vice President Anamika Bhatnagar stated that it was great that we're taking advantage of this.
Boar…
Jan 22, 2026
Board of Education
All in favor? I I opposed. Abstain. Motion carries. Thank you. And then we have item 4.6 six which is an update to our stop on the camera installation on district residence and I will turn it again back to assistant superintendent business car
Board Trustee Sarah Carrier attended the Booster Club meeting, where they discussed the Mayclim tournament, spring sports, and swag at Family Resource Center. Ms. Bhatnagar commented on the SEPTA Family Resource Center's great use of space. Student e…
On the question: Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harrington-Cohen reported that the 2 projects are related to repairs in the buildings. A hearing is required for Board approval of expenditure. Funds do not come out of general fund as th…
On the question: Board Trustee Neal Haber thanked Board Trustee Omar Mayyasi for originally suggesting the establishment of the repair reserve. Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harrington-Cohen noted that it is the second time we've used …
On the question: Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harrington-Cohen reported that the Business Office conducted a study of natural gas usage, including supply costs vs delivery costs. The deregulation of supply side gave us the option of …
Final Resolution: Motion Carried
Yes: Anamika Bhatnagar, Sarah Carrier, Neal Haber, Omar Mayyasi, Theo Oshiro, Allison Samuels, Ana Teague
Report: 4.6 Update: Stop Arm Camera Installation on District Buses
Assistant Superintendent for Business Den…
Feb 12, 2026
Board of Education
THERE'S JUST ONE MORE appointment that I would like to make and then I think we'll take a pause for anybody who wants to go home. but we had amended the agenda to move to item 3.2 two, which is the assistant superintendent appointment. Yeah, I'd like…
Laura Dubak to be the next assistant superintendent in the district. Her academic preparation, her work here over the past seven years has been significant, has gotten us to where we are, and more importantly has positioned us better in our trajector…
Yeah. On the question. I'm so sorry. It's okay. I'll start with recommended action. Be it resolved the board of education upon the recommendation of the superintendent of schools hereby appoints Dr. Laura Dubak as a 1.0 FTE assistant superintendent a…
I second on a question. So, I'm going to say something that's a little bit uncomfortable, but I feel compelled to do this. tonight the superintendent is asking the BOE to approve the appointment of Dr. Dubak, who has been the principal in the high sc…
Thank you. I just want to respond to that. when Superintendent Walker came to us and when assistant superintendent John Griffiths came to us and gave us the luxury really of of telling us well in advance that he was about to retire and we could start…
There's no more on the question. All in favor? I opposed abstain. I motion carries. Congratulations. We'll take a brief pause for anybody who wants That's what Oh, sorry. You're okay. I will keep it brief because we have a robust agenda after this. g…
My name is Ed Riely. I live on Trudale Drive. like to point out the obvious that over a course of 12 months, three of the primary leaders of the school district have left or will be transferred to a different job. That makes it a very difficult proce…
Thank you for taking members of the public. I know there are a couple of members who spoke to us tonight who said we would like to understand how the budget is created. The next item on the agenda is our assistant superintendent for business who's go…
So generally it's the principal and assistant principal and central office administrators. Technology is there, pupil personnel services, superintendent and assistant superintendent for curriculum instruction is there and we go through every budget r…
Thank you very much. We will now move into instructional personnel. Item 3.1, recommended action. Be it resolved the board of education hereby accepts the administrative personnel resignation of Laura Dubak, principal Herman High School effective end…
Business Meeting (Thursday, February 12, 2026)
Generated by Denise Bisaccia on Friday, February 13, 2026
Members present
Anamika Bhatnagar, Sarah Carrier, Neal Haber, Allison Samuels, Ana Teague
Meeting called to order at 7:01 PM
1. Opening of M…
Presentation: 1.6 Recognition of the 2026 Valedictorian & Salutatorian
Dr. Laura Dubak, CHHS Principal and Erical Fiorini, CHHS Assistant Principal, introduced the 2026 Valedictorian and Salutatorian, Jeremy Pollak and Maya Sebestyen, respectively.
…
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Education, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools, hereby appoints Dr. Laura Dubak, as a 1.0 FTE Assistant Superintendent (Administrator - Assistant Superintendent Tenure Area), at a salary of $238,…
Board President Ana Teague stated that Assistant Superintendent Griffiths gave enough notice of his retirement and they spoke extensively of the process since that time. Dr. Dubak met with groups of BOE members and no one had objections during this …
Yes: Anamika Bhatnagar, Sarah Carrier, Neal Haber, Ana Teague
Abstain: Allison Samuels
2. Reports
Presentation, Report: 2.1 President's Report
Board President Ana Teague reported on the following topics:
FAQ document was sent out to the communit…
Audit: Committee Chair Omar Mayyasi was not in attendance. Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harrington-Cohen reported that they will be postponing February 26 meeting to early March.
Board Development: Committee Chair Anamika Bhatnagar …
Liaison Reports: Board Trustee Neal Haber reported that he attended Student Faculty Congress where they discussed additional thoughts re: Policy 2125 re: the student ex-officio. They engaged in a robust discussion re: changes to be made to CHHS sche…
Action: 3.1 Administrative Personnel Resignation
RESOLVED: That the Board of Education hereby accepts the administrative personnel resignation of Dr. Laura Dubak, Principal, Croton-Harmon High School, effective end of day June 30, 2026, for the purp…
Feb 26, 2026
Board of Education
Thank you all. Later this evening, we will be moving into executive session to provide Superintendent Walker with a midyear check-in regarding his goals in line with the board's established timeline leading up to the superintendent's annual evaluatio…
So, I just want to speak briefly as I do at the start of really every budget meeting. I realized today this is the fifth budget cycle I've had a chance to be a part of here. and I think as the board and community will see, this is by far the most cha…
Athletic Director Christine Drago will be monitoring this and they also discussed ways to keep athletes safe, healthy, and active.
2. Work Session
Presentation: 2.1 2026-2027 Budget Presentation
Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harring…
Assistant Superintendent for PPS, Rachel DePaul summarized the RFP process. Three proposals were received, one organization was not qualified. The two local organizations were evaluated and determined that the specifications met the requirements. B…
Mar 12, 2026
Board of Education
If you have additional feedback to give us, so most of what we discussed in our meeting, we did we did have our meeting finally this week after being rescheduled, I think twice for so we met on the 4th. and what you will see in later on in tonight's …
And so it's wonderful that with the support of assistant superintendent Rachel DePaul, who has encouraged us to make sure that we have a parent actually to fill that role, that has now happened and we're we're we are up and running to be able to do t…
The quilt also highlights the work of our transportation department and the district in general in bringing electric buses as well as believe it or not it also features our commitment to heat pumps. These are all illustrated on this quilt in quilt st…
Yeah, I was actually going to say I was going to turn it over to our assistant superintendent for business, Denise Harrington-Cohen. and if she wanted to just give us a little bit of background on this and and why it is such an important advocacy top…
Yeah. Wonderful. Well, thank you. Thank you for that. We move to item 6.3, next board of education meeting. So, our next meeting is scheduled for March 26th, 2026. It is a work session where we will be covering school budgets as they relate to curric…
On the question: Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harrington-Cohen explained about this authorization further. It enables school districts to establish health insurance reserve funds to cover rising costs of health insurance. We're part…
Apr 9, 2026
Board of Education
>> Thank you, Mona. Good evening again to everyone and thank you for everyone who is watching from home. I'll be brief because we have five uh phenomenal building leaders and our wonderful assistant superintendent PBS who are going to uh speak in som…
Success in Schools: Postsecondary Pathways
College Acceptances for Class of 2025
Pupil Personnel Services budget was presented by Assistant Superintendent for PPS, Rachel DePaul and included:
Pupil Personnel Services 2026-2027 Proposed Budget
Cul…
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Education of the Croton-Harmon Union Free School District approve the Agreement with the County of Westchester for the use of certain voting machines and equipment and authorizes and empowers the Super…
Apr 21, 2026
Board of Education
So we continue to monitor that closely and to provide just a brief further update. I'm happy to turn it over to Assistant Superintendent of UPS Regents McCall. Good evening.
So we ask folks to devote us about four minutes and fifteen seconds long but does I think a good job of summarizing the entire process and look forward to continuing engagement and questions from our community as we get closer to the budget point its…
let's take a look at how we arrived here. This is our very rigorous presentation schedule and tonight will be a culmination of these discussions and presentations all leading to the public budget hearing on May 7 and our vote on May 19. So overview, …
A parent of a kindergartner spoke regarding what her daughter has been watching in school every single day -- videos of books read by celebrities, low-quality, high stimulation videos, not educational tools. Corporate TV show is being used as math cu…
Enhancements to Support Our Vision
New Video to be launched 4/22
Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harrington-Cohen reported on the following:
2026-27 Budget Presentation Schedule summary
Budget Drivers
NYS Budget (delayed)
Anticipat…
Commended district on cell phone policy, but it has come in too late.
A parent of a kindergartner spoke regarding what her daughter has been watching in school every single day -- videos of books read by celebrities, low-quality, high stimulation vi…
Enhancements to Support Our Vision
New Video to be launched 4/22
Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harrington-Cohen reported on the following:
2026-27 Budget Presentation Schedule summary
Budget Drivers
NYS Budget (delayed)
Anticipat…
May 7, 2026
Board of Education
By slightly expanding into the central garden area, we're able to create this protected environment for our youngest learners without encroaching on the rest of the library's footprint. These renders highlight new reading nooks and quiet study areas,…
I will now go to item 4.1 and open the public budget hearing. I want to just make a note for the public. Our assistant superintendent in charge of business, Denise Harrington-Cohen, is dealing with a private matter tonight and unable to be here. She …
Sorry. If I didn't say assistant superintendent, yes. Assistant superintendent. I'm sorry. So while that process is happening for a new software, I've also implemented this annual evaluation grants that I've only been attending to a month. So, yeah, …
So at the last meeting, I think I had mentioned that LHEC had submitted a petition to the Public Service Commission. And for to do this informational proceeding to examine electric utility readiness to support the school bus fleet electrification. So…
May 19, 2026
Board of Education
Yes: Anamika Bhatnagar, Sarah Carrier, Neal Haber, Theo Oshiro, Allison Samuels, Ana Teague
Not Present at Vote: Omar Mayyasi
Action (Consent): 7.5 Initiation of Due Process Claim
Resolution: RESOLVED: That the Board of Education hereby authorizes…
Resolution: RESOLVED: That the Board of Education hereby authorizes the Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Personnel to initiate a Due Process Claim and Impartial Hearing in order to demonstrate the appropriateness of the school district's evaluation…
Jun 4, 2026
Board of Education
>> On Advocacy, if I may, one of the things that we received was a information from the Assistant Superintendent for Business about a recent um decision of the Appellate Division for the Department declaring that school districts may not use piggybac…
I may turn to Assistant Superintendent of Business and Human Resources Department.
>> I want to ask I do. This isn't typically something that we include in board reports, but I do just want to take a moment and acknowledge um the fact that the kindergarten lottery went off. Uh I'm sorry, UPK lottery went off um and that it has clos…
>> I think perhaps I don't know if if if it would be appropriate to ask our assistant superintendent for provisions to kind of give a little description if you can about what's going on with the school 2 playground and how this contribution, this don…
Discussion: 1.5 Board Reports
Advocacy: Committee Chair Sarah Carrier reported they they will try to get meeting scheduled this month as resolutions are to be submitted to WPSBA. Board Trustee Neal Haber asked that they consider supporting piggyba…
Motion by Theo Oshiro, second by Allison Samuels.
On the question: Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harrington-Cohen explained that the playground quote received was higher than the excess available from the Capital Fund, so the PTA agr…
Jun 11, 2026
Board of Education
and then you >> can move it alone. >> All in favor? >> Opposed? Abstain. Motion carries. Thank you. Item 2.1 is the president's report. This is our last regular uh scheduled meeting of the 2025 2026 school year. We are wrapping up um heading towards …
Tompkins Elementary School
RESOLVED: That the Board of Education gratefully accepts a donation of $2,000 from the Croton-Harmon Booster Club, as a contribution to the bike shed at Carrie E. Tompkins Elementary School
Motion by Anamika Bhatnagar, se…
Motion by Omar Mayyasi, second by Anamika Bhatnagar.
On the question: Board Trustee Omar Mayyasi asked about the data privacy/submission of plan and whether it would be submitted only after approval? Ms. Harrington-Cohen reported that she would ch…
Jun 29, 2026
Board of Education
Good evening, everyone. We are now resuming the 06/29/2026 special meeting of the Croton-Harmon Union Group School District. We called to order. We approved the agenda. We then entered into executive session. We left executive session at 06:17PM. We…
Executive Session entered at 5:04 pm
Motion by Theo Oshiro, second by Anamika Bhatnagar
Final Resolution: Motion Carried
Yes: Anamika Bhatnagar, Neal Haber, Theo Oshiro, Allison Samuels, Ana Teague
Board Trustee Omar Mayyasi joined the meeting at…
Motion by Anamika Bhatnagar, second by Neal Haber.
On the question: Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harrington-Cohen explained that funds are to be allocated to fix PVC boiler #2. The reserve fund has proven so valuable to the distric…
based on its base bid; and WHEREAS, after receiving bids for other construction work to be completed within the District, the Assistant Superintendent for Business and the District’s Architects for the Project, KG+D Architects, recommends awarding tw…
to $805,800.00 (Base Bid + Alternate 1 +Alternate 3); and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the President of the Board of Education is authorized to signed construction awarded to Clean Air Quality Services, Inc. on June 11, 2026 as modified by this resol…
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Education hereby authorizes the transfer of funds in the amount of $200,000 from the General Fund to reduce the operating deficit of the School Lunch Fund; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Superintendent…
Jul 16, 2026
Board of Education
Good afternoon. Ed Riely from Truesdale Drive. I'd like to welcome a new member support, new assistant superintendent, and the superintendent for finance. This board has been interesting in that many people in the board, not have been open to evaluat…
I think the energy of the students and faculty and staff isn't there. But it does give us an opportunity along with the faculty to do some really high quality and important curriculum development work, professional learning, facilities planning, goal…
The summer is also an incredibly busy time for our buildings and grounds and facilities team, and I wanna take a moment just to thank all of them and our director Brad Kennedy for their continued wonderful work throughout the course of the entire sch…
District Clerk, Denise Bisaccia
School District Treasurer, Barry Gamzon
Deputy Claims Auditor, ToniAnn Karlsson, $125/hour
School District Deputy Treasurer, Asst. Business Manager, at a stipend of $1,500
Central Treasurer for the Student Act…
$35,200 per annum
Internal Auditor, R.S. Abrams & Company, LLP, $25,000 per annum
Bond Counsel, Hawkins Delafield & Wood LLP, fees pursuant to fee schedule
Financial Advisors, Capital Markets Advisors, fees pursuant to fee schedule
Claims A…
Assistant Superintendent, Chief Information Officer (no additional stipend)
Director of Technology, Data Protection Officer (no additional stipend)
Director of Facilities, Asbestos Inspector (no additional stipend)
Assistant Principal, CHHS Bul…
Resolution: RESOLVED: that the Superintendent of Schools be authorized to certify payrolls to the proper authorities on the occasions required, and the Assistant Superintendent for Business be authorized to adjust payrolls, in accordance with all bar…
1. Croton-Harmon High School with the Principal as Bursar: not to exceed $100.00
2. Pierre Van Cortlandt Middle School with the Principal as Bursar: not to exceed $100.00
3. Carrie E. Tompkins Elementary School with the Principal as Bursar: not t…
Mr. Stephen Walker, Superintendent of Schools, not to exceed $5,000.
Denise Harrington-Cohen, Assistant Superintendent for Business, not to exceed $5,000.
Rachel DePaul, Assistant Superintendent of Pupil Personnel Services, not to exceed $2,500. …
He supports limiting technology and cell phones. Report: 7.02 President's Report
Board President Anamika Bhatnagar welcomed Dr. Laura Dubak as the new Assistant Superintendent. She is looking forward to working with everyone and she thanked the BOE…
Board Vice President Omar Mayyasi asked that minimums and maximums be added to each slide.
Board Trustee Elizabeth Laird asked for references to other schools of similar size and budget.
Board Trustee Allison Samuels noted that she would like to se…
Aug 6, 2026
Board of Education
Shifting quickly to community updates. This past Tuesday, August 5, members of the board of education and families from across our district attended National Night Out, a community event hosted by the Croton Police Department with support from Croton…
Board Trustee Ana Teague left the meeting at 9:18 pm.
6. Consent Agenda
Action (Consent): 6.1 Approval of Consent Agenda
Resolution: RESOLVED: That the Board of Education hereby approves all the items under the Consent Agenda.
Motion by Elizabeth…
and reduces, in turn, the total contract sum of this contract from $805,800.00 to $805,780.00; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the District’s Superintendent of Schools, the Assistant Superintendent for Business and Treasurer are hereby authorized in…
Aug 27, 2026
Board of Education
hosted by assistant superintendent Rachel DePal and the people personnel services team. Betsy was there with her family as well, and I hope we'll hear about the bus ride during your report. The event was so well attended, and I was really thrilled to…
Okay. So we did meet on August 11 at two Tuesday, August 11. And just to remind, for anyone who does not remember, this ad hoc committee on recruiting, hiring, and tenure, was established in June of this year at a meeting of the board of education an…
I don't have any questions, but I did wanna thank Brad for taking the time to speak to, certainly, people in my neighborhood. I also just wanted to say that, with respect to this, my concern initially when we had this conversation was about the fundi…
The committee will draft a resolution and finalize a presentation for the September 3 BOE meeting. Ad Hoc Committee on Hiring, Retention, and Tenure: Committee Chair Theo Oshiro reported that they met August 11. As a reminder, the committee was esta…
Motion by Omar Mayyasi, second by Allison Samuels. On the question: Mr. Kennedy reported that, after first presentation at the August 6 BOE meeting, neighbors were identified to be sent postcards w/ QR codes providing the presentation and a google f…
Sep 3, 2026
Board of Education
Board Trustee Theo Oshiro thanked the committee, and noted that, while the priority is our district, he encourages the committee to think outside Croton, and share with other districts. Board Trustee Betsy Laird noted that CHUFSD seems to be a leader…
Sep 17, 2026
Board of Education
RESOLVED: That the Board of Education hereby approves all items on the consent agenda. On the question: Board Trustee Ana Teague asked for background and specifics re: the facility use fee waiver. Assistant Superintendent for Business Denise Harring…
Oct 1, 2026
Board of Education
On the question? All in favor? Aye. Opposed? Abstaining? The motion carries. We'll now move into the next item on our agenda, the recognition of the National Merit Scholarship semifinalists and commended students. And for that, I will turn it over to…
In order to do that, one of the practices that we're going to rely upon going forward is to look at the NISPA recommended policy and start there. So the policy committee will be disseminating that and looking at that, working with assistant superinte…
So moving on to number seven, which was the, NISPA. It's a resolution. NISPA support a new state bond act to support school capital and facility needs such as HVAC, new electrical systems, pre space... Pre k space, and technology. And for this, we ha…
So I'll turn to Trustee Samuels who offered some insight into the reference of this resolution with respect to Resolution 18 and then I will turn to Assistant Superintendent DePaul because she had some very practical comments and information for us t…
So to talk about something that's been raised a a few times this evening, resolution 21 is NISPA advocate for changes to applicable federal and state laws, regulations, and guidance to include water, whether dispensed or packaged, as an allowable bev…
in the voting delegates guide it says pause the mandate not the mission. Funding must continue for districts that are ready to act now and our district is thankfully due to the hard work of everyone on the administrative team especially Assistant Sup…