January 12, 2024
Dear SAU 90 Staff and Families,
Last night at the budget committee, the town reviewed our proposed 2024-2025 budget along with all other warrant articles that will be presented to the voters on March 14 at Winnacunnet High School. Overall, our budget is up 3.09 % over the default budget. Our default budget includes encumbered funds that include teachers’ contracts and support staff contracts, special education costs, health insurance and transportation increases. Please know that the leadership team and board take our fiscal responsibilities very seriously and worked hard to create a fair budget while focusing on our quality schools. On Monday, February 5 at 7:00 PM, the school will hold a deliberative session at Hampton Academy where there will be an opportunity for discussion from the public.
This week, our town was hit with two storms that impacted our community. Although, we expect to receive snowfall during these winter months, the devastation near the beach and marsh due to heavy winds, rain, and flooding was very challenging for many who live near the beach especially during hightides which occurred around 10 AM on Tuesday. During that time, we were contacted by our Hampton Officials to assist with shelter. There were 6 people, 4 adults and 2 infants, who were in our Community Room at Hampton Academy until early afternoon. Please remember, that we’re able to cordon off this room from all students in our building and our SRO was there to monitor the situation. This public space was chosen due to the proximity to the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) which was located at the Fire Station on Winnacunnet Road and is under the direction of Chief McMahon. We anticipate opening the Community Room at Hampton Academy tomorrow given the expected weather. We appreciate the cooperation and support from our town officials who are there to help our community in times of safety and need.
To that end, please be sure we have your correct contact information on file. All families are notified of school closings and delays through our messaging systems. Having the correct information ensures that the information is received in a timely manner.
Our schools have many talented and dedicated teachers. Do you know of a teacher or colleague that stands out. Please consider nominating her/him for Teacher of the Year! Each year, New Hampshire schools take part in the State and National Teacher of the Year program. Anyone can nominate an outstanding teacher by using this link on or before February 2, 2024. Teachers may also self-apply by downloading an application here. Applications are due to the New Hampshire Department of Education (NHED) no later than March 21, 2024. All nominees that complete an application will be honored at a ceremony this spring. Past nominees from our district include Ms. Samantha Lyford, Mrs. Bonnie Heath, Mr. Sean Tierney, Mrs. Michele Croteau, and Assistant Principal, Mrs. Elizabeth Henderson.
Wishing everyone a wonderful long weekend ahead!
In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr…
The time is always right to do what is right,
Dr. Lois B. Costa
Superintendent of SAU 90