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The Parent Council of KatonahLewisboro consists of present and past PTO/PTA presidents who work together to advocate for the best interests of all our students. We have experienced sharp differences of opinion over the past two years, but we have gained respect for each other and our differing ideas. As a group, we have come together and agree that is it important to promote thoughtful and respectful dialogue amongst ourselves and within the community, and that accurate information is shared so informed voters can help shape the future of our children's education.
It is in this spirit that we offer clarification on several issues.
Teacher contracts - The board of education (BOE) and the teachers association recently ratified a new four-year contract. The teachers' annual increases are as follows:
 | 2.8 percent for 2002-03 |
| 3.4 percent for 2003-04 |
| 3.3 percent for 2004-05 |
| 3.25 percent for 05-06 |
The annual percent increases are below the median settlement for Westchester and Putnam counties. The new contract includes a 6 percent contribution by teachers to their medical premiums. The median contribution in Westchester County is 5 percent.
In addition to the annual increases, each teacher's compensation varies depending on number of years' experience (step increases) and their level of education. In 2003-04, teachers who no longer receive compensation for step increases or educational credits will see an annual increase of 3.4 percent, while others could receive an increase comprised of step and educational credits of up to approximately 5.7 percent. Currently, 30 percent of the staff is ineligible for step increases. In order to assess the total impact of compensation on future budget annual increases, step increases and educational credits need to be considered based on the staff profile at he time. For details, please contact the BOE.
Pension payments - Community members have expressed concern over the increased contributions to employee pension plans. The administration and the BOE have NO authority over contributions to pension plans. New York State mandates this and the comptroller, Alan Hevesi, notifies the school district is as to the amount of contributions required.
Unfunded state and federal man dates - Unfunded mandates,imposed by the state and federal government, force districts to spend money on things they might not need. For example, many districts feel they should be exempt from yearly testing because their students consistently meet state standards. Instead, they are required to administer the tests and incur the expenses associated with them. Many mandates are necessary, but school districts cannot provide them without significant tax increases. Change will only happen when the chorus of protest reverberates loudly in Albany. Please write to your local legislators to voice your opinion.
Having considered the difficult choices the BOE and the administration had to make to keep costs reasonable, the impact of the weak economy and possible additional cuts, we ask that you consider supporting the budget and the propositions on June 3. If the budget is defeated, the BOE will have to make cuts in discretionary spending, which may include programs, staffing, operations, maintenance, technology, and athletics.
We urge all voters to become informed and vote!
Co-presidents, Parent Council