October 7 BOE Meeting Recap

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the October 7 Board of Education meeting, whether in person or virtually. The Board continues to focus on maintaining transparency, celebrating student achievement, and engaging the community in meaningful discussions about district priorities. 

If you were unable to attend, a full recording of the meeting is available here, and the meeting agenda can be found here. 

Below is a brief summary of key items from the meeting: 

Presentation and Acceptance of Audited Financial Statements (click to view presentation) 

Scott Oling, Partner at PKF O’Connor Davies Accounting Firm, presented the annual audited financial statements for the year ending June 30, 2025. 

• The audit, mandated under New York State Education Law, was previously reviewed with the Audit Committee on September 25.
• The district received an Unmodified Opinion—the highest possible rating—confirming strong fiscal management and compliance with state and federal accounting standards (“Yellow Book” audit).
• The Board formally accepted the report (approved 5-0).

Superintendent’s Report: Dr. Lutinski shared updates from across the district, beginning with a recap of the Pleasantville Forward Together Community Forum, noting positive community engagement and the next Community Facilities Committee (CFC) meeting on Thursday, October 9.

Additional highlights included:

• Test Score Reports will be available to parents via eSchool this week.
• Digital Citizenship Week kicks off October 20 with themed activities across all schools. Families are also invited to two special evening events designed to spark conversation and connection:
  • Special Screening: Can’t Look Away
    Monday, October 20 • 7:00 PM • Jacob Burns Film Center
    Use promo code UNPLUG2025 for member pricing at checkout.
  • Digital Wellness Speaker: Dr. Devorah Heitner
    Thursday, October 23 • 7:00 PM • PHS Auditorium
    CLICK HERE to RSVP on ParentSquare

• Student Highlights:
  • BRS students visited the Fire Department for Fire Prevention Week.
  • Classes enjoyed field experiences including the Wolf Conservation Center (BRS) and Sharpe Reservation (PMS).
  • Programs like Refresh Recess and Sources of Strength continue to build positive school culture.
• Recognition: 15 students honored by the National Merit Scholarship Program, including semifinalists Sara Agabob. This is the largest group recognized in over a decade.

Student Representative Report: Julian Giebelhaus provided an enthusiastic update on Homecoming Week, including Pride Days, building decorations, pep rally, fall sports celebrations, senior dinner, bonfire, pancake breakfast, brick-laying ceremony, and the upcoming football game. 

Discussion Items 

• NYSSBA 2025 Proposed Resolutions – The Board reviewed NYSSBA’s recommendations and discussed Pleasantville’s position on each resolution (support or oppose). 

• 2026-2027 Budget Workshop – Trustees discussed preferred timing for the Budget Workshop meeting (earlier is better, likely after the budget preview) and will discuss topics to include in the workshop series with Dr. Lutinski. 

Consent Agenda: Approved (5-0).

Closing Remarks: Student Representative Julian Giebelhaus suggested surveying the student body to gather input on the Capital Project planning.

• Board members noted that there is student voice on the subcommittees, but they encourage additional feedback from the student body.
• Dr. Lutinski suggested that qualitative feedback would be most useful when gathered in a timely manner and shared directly with each subcommittee.

These updates reflect the District’s continued commitment to fiscal responsibility, student success, and community engagement. The Board encourages residents to stay informed, participate in upcoming events, and share feedback as we move forward together. 

The next Board of Education meeting is scheduled for October 21, 2025 at 7:30 PM in the High School Library.