In the 2005-2006 school budget vote, voter turnout for Glen Cove was very high, however, those voting against the budget led those in favor by 72 votes, resulting in 1592 no votes to 1520 yes votes. The proposition allowing the board to add an additional sum, not to exceed $400,000, to fund tax certioraris, and to reserve the right to bond amounts above the $400,000 also failed.

Dr. Cicchelli, interim superintendent of schools said, "Of course, I am very disappointed with the results. We presented the community with a good budget. Now the board will meet and decide where they will go from here." Dr. Michael Griffin, interim assistant superintendent for curriculum stated, "I am very disappointed that the budget was defeated but I am hopeful that in the future the community will have increasing awareness of the importance of passing the school budget, not just for the students, but for the community." Board President Janet Bates-Wilkins had this comment, "Speaking on behalf of the board of education, we are deeply disappointed with the budget defeat. This past year on austerity was very difficult. However, I am very proud of the students who got involved in the budget process by attending board meetings, passing out fliers and writing letters. In a time when youth is considered apathetic, our kids came up to the plate. I'm very proud of them."

In the school board election, Frank Bouza with 1,352 votes and Fred Moore with 1,316 votes were elected to the board. Mr. Bouza stated, "I want to thank all in the community that voted for me." Mr. Moore said, "I'm disappointed that the district voted down the budget. I would like to thank the voters who voted for me. I appreciate their faith in me and I will do all I can to help all students in the district."

The board of education issued the following statement:

The board will be meeting Monday May 23, 6:30 p.m. in executive session and at 7:30 p.m. in the high school for a public meeting, at which the public will be invited to speak, to discuss the options in light of the failed budget. The options include adopting the austerity budget or putting up a second budget vote.

The board congratulates and welcomes Frank Bouza and Fred Moore to the board of education, and we look forward to working with them. Mr. Bouza was sworn in following the vote to fill Rodger Silletti's vacated seat, as he was the candidate who received the most votes. Mr. Moore will be sworn in at the reorganization meeting in July.

North Shore's 2005-2006 school budget passed by 2,533 yes votes to 1,330 no votes. The resolution to establish a capital reserve fund was also passed. Amy Beyer and Peter Vollmer will continue on the board of education.

Dr. Edward Melnick, superintendent of schools, released the following statement:

"I would like to sincerely thank the North Shore community for coming out on May 17 to cast your votes in the 2005-2006 school budget vote and election of trustees. During a challenging year for all school districts across Long Island, it is gratifying that our residents have enabled the North Shore Public Schools to continue the programs that have given our district its excellent reputation for preparing students who excel in academics, service and citizenship.

"I offer my gratitude to our staff and board of education trustees who worked so hard to create a budget that is fiscally responsible, and keeps our programs strong. Thanks to all of our faculty and staff members for their consistent support, and more importantly for their extraordinary efforts to meet the needs of each of their students on a daily basis. I wish to express my appreciation to the many community members who have volunteered their support to benefit our students in so many ways-from parents who offer their time in our schools, to citizens and community leaders who have attended board of education budget review meetings, town meetings and the many community coffees that were held throughout the year. I would also like to thank all the residents who called with questions about the budget. I appreciate your efforts to make an informed decision.

"Congratulations to board of education members Amy Beyer and Peter Vollmer, who will continue to serve our community as board trustees.

With your support, we are committed to working harder than ever for the success of our students. We look forward to continuing the ongoing task of building a vibrant school-community partnership, based on communication, cooperation and trust.