2% Tax Cap - Takes Away Local Control 

Many See Negative Impact on Schools

Legislation has been proposed in Albany to cap school districts' property tax levy increases at the lower of 2% or the rate of inflation.  At first glance this seems appealing - the hope of lower taxes.  However, school districts across the state are warning that the cap will mean teacher layoffs and increases in class size as well as the elimination or reduction of offerings such as sports, arts, music, foreign language, electives and other non-essential programs or support services.  Many point out that the legislation has significant flaws, including:

• Minority Can Block School Budget. Even if a majority of voters approve a school budget, a minority of only 40% could defeat it and the school system would have a ZERO increase - annual layoffs and program cuts would be highly likely.
• Mandates & Systemic Costs Not Addressed. The major cost drivers of expenses in schools are not addressed in the pending bill.  As mandated or required costs continue to escalate and Albany fails to provide funding, educational quality will be eroded due to budget cuts.
• Inflation Adjustment in One-Way. The bill only has a downward adjustment for inflation - if inflation rises above 2% - schools face even worse consequences.  

The New York State PTA has issued an Advocacy Alert --

Dear NYS PTA members, friends, neighbors and community members,

We are asking you to join us in signing an on-line petition to ask New York State legislators to reject proposed property tax cap legislation. We all care about our schools and our communities. We all want and need real tax relief and a quality education system. Tax cap proposals purport to provide tax relief but at what cost to our children's future? By signing the petition (click this link), you will be telling your legislators that you are tired of Albany limiting educational opportunities and telling you how to spend your community's money. Click here to go directly to the petition. 

School superintendents have also issued a memo about the tax cap and suggesting alternatives. Click here to read it.  

The District's Assistive Technology Specialists are:

Andrew Hess, Ph.D.-- Assistive Technology Specialist

Ann Rushe, M.A. CCC/SLP -- Augmentative/Alternative Communication Specialist

SEPTA Survey -- Activities for Children with Special Needs or Differences

Dear Parents of Special Needs Children in Larchmont-Mamaroneck,

SEPTA is seeking input from parents about the activities outside of the school day (such as sports, after or before school clubs, the performing or visual arts, extra-curricular offerings, community programs etc.) their children with any special needs, whether they receive special education or not, have participated in or would be interested in being offered whether located in the schools or elsewhere in the community.

SEPTA will use this information as we plan for next year and very much appreciate your participation in this anonymous survey (no personal information is collected). Please note that nothing in this survey is intended to suggest that the school district or any organization has indicated that they will provide additional offerings.

The appreciate your input and look forward to learning about the opportunities your child has enjoyed or would be interested in participating in.

Your voice matters - PLEASE complete this short survey now.

Click here! 

Support SEPTA's efforts to provide more useful faculty grants - simply purchase ytour favorite magazines or buy gifts for Father's Day, graduations, teacher appreciation or other occassions.  It's quick, easy and a great way to support SEPTA's grant program.  

Click here