5/5/2026 Regular Board of Ed Meeting

The Islip UFSD Board of Education held its regular meeting on May 5, 2026, which included a detailed presentation and discussion of the proposed 2027 school budget. The budget presentation highlighted a 3.71% overall increase, totaling approximately $106.2 million, with a proposed tax levy increase of 2.85%, exceeding the state tax cap by about $432,000. Key budget items included maintaining all current programs, funding a $275,000 replacement for the high school greenhouse, and sustaining class sizes and educational offerings. The board discussed reductions in staff through attrition, negotiated savings with bargaining units, and the use of reserves totaling about $2.2 million. Notably, the budget will no longer cover PSAT, SAT, ACT, or AP exam fees, shifting these costs to families. The meeting also covered a new partnership with Suffolk County Community College to offer discounted college courses to students, ongoing professional development programs, and the addition of a welding program as part of career and technical education. Public comments addressed concerns about budget transparency, leadership, and program cuts. The board approved consent agenda items and prepared for the upcoming budget vote scheduled for May 19, 2026.