A Message from Dr. O'Hara
Dear Islip Community,
On behalf of the Board of Education and administration, I am pleased to share that voters approved the revised 2026-2027 school budget on Tuesday, June 16.
First and foremost, thank you.
Thank you to every resident who took the time to learn about the budget, attend meetings, ask questions, share concerns, engage in respectful dialogue, and ultimately participate in the democratic process. Whether you supported the original proposal, opposed it, supported the revised proposal, or remained undecided until Election Day, your voice mattered and helped shape the outcome.
The events of the past several weeks have reminded us that a school district budget is about much more than dollars and cents. It is a reflection of a community's values, priorities, and aspirations for its children. When the original budget proposal was not approved in May, the community sent a clear message that it wanted additional information and a more detailed understanding of the District's financial plans. We heard that message, and we worked diligently to respond.
In the weeks that followed, residents attended public meetings, reviewed budget materials, asked thoughtful questions, and provided valuable feedback. Those conversations were important. They challenged us to explain our decisions more clearly, examine our assumptions more carefully, and ensure that our financial planning reflected both fiscal responsibility and our commitment to educational excellence.
The approval of the revised budget represents more than the passage of a spending plan. It reflects a renewed partnership between the District and the community we serve. While healthy differences of opinion will always exist, we are united by a common goal: providing the very best educational opportunities for the students of Islip.
As we look ahead to the 2026-2027 school year, there is much to be excited about. This budget allows us to continue supporting academic programs that are relevant and rigorous, as well as the arts, athletics, extracurricular activities, special education services, mental health supports, and innovative learning opportunities that help students discover their passions and prepare for their futures. It also positions us to continue building upon recent efforts to expand student opportunities, strengthen academic achievement, and provide experiences that prepare students for college, careers, military service, and life beyond graduation.
Most importantly, this process has reinforced something we have always known: Islip is a community that cares deeply about its schools. The engagement we witnessed throughout this budget season demonstrates the pride our residents have in this District and the importance they place on public education.
The work does not end with a budget vote. In fact, it begins anew. We remain committed to listening, communicating openly, and being responsible stewards of the resources entrusted to us. We also remain focused on what matters most - creating exceptional opportunities for our students and ensuring that every child who walks through our doors is challenged, supported, and inspired to succeed.
Thank you for your participation, your partnership, and your continued support of the Islip School District. Together, we have an exciting future ahead.
With gratitude,
Dennis P. O'Hara, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools