Programs in Jeopardy if Sewanhaka Budget Fails

If the district budget of $162,257,334 does not pass, then $3,417,062 in additional cuts need to be made, according to a presentation made by during Tuesday's annual budget meeting.

If that happens, the following are programs that are in jeopardy, Meierdiercks noted:

• Late buses
• Driver education
• Interscholastic athletics
• Intramurals
• Extra-curricular clubs
• Capital projects
• Equipment usage
• Usage of buildings and fields by outside community groups

The following other areas could be reduced or eliminated, Meierdiercks said:

• Model United Nations
• District Sports Night
• FBLA
• District Music Festival
• Marching Band Festival

If the budget fails, the district would also have to look at making some changes to administrative, clerical, teaching and buildings and grounds positions, according to the presentation.

Two parents at the annual budget hearing asked for some more transparency regarding the budget. Asya Blue, who would like her daughter to attend the . She inquired at the meeting about why next year's budget includes removal of tennis courts at Floral Park High School at a cost of about $140,000 when perhaps that money could be used elsewhere, such as funding for several students to attend the BOCES arts program. Maureen Kenney, assistant superintendent for finance and operations, explained that it could be a safety hazard.