Dear Mount Sinai Community,
The Mount Sinai School District has joined a coalition of school districts across New York State to challenge the recently mandated regionalization plans issued by the New York State Education Department. This lawsuit opposes the forced regionalization of public schools, which we believe undermines the principle of local control that has been a cornerstone of public education in our state for over 200 years.
The proposed regionalization plans, if implemented, would require school districts to consolidate operations and resources under a state-directed framework, stripping local Boards of Education of their authority and oversight. We are deeply concerned about the lack of transparency, insufficient public input, and the sweeping nature of these mandates. Our district, along with others, contends that this rule oversteps the bounds of administrative authority and threatens the quality and individuality of public education in our community.
Attached, you will find a press release with more details about the lawsuit. Please know that this decision to pursue legal action reflects our commitment to protecting our district’s autonomy and ensuring that decisions affecting our schools remain in the hands of those who know our students and community best.
We will keep you informed as this case progresses. Thank you for your continued support and trust in the Mount Sinai School District.
Sincerely,
Dr. Criscione
Superintendent of Schools
The Board of Education
Mount Sinai School District