On the ballot: renovation of Greenvale school; no additional cost to districts

The Nassau BOCES mission statement is clear: we are “dedicated to providing the best possible education for learners of all ages and abilities.” That’s why the Board and administration have scheduled a county-wide vote—residents are being asked to approve renovations that will enhance our ability to serve youngsters with disabilities.
Vote February 12 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Nassau BOCES Administrative Center, Garden City
Alternative Learning Program, Greenvale
Barry Tech, Westbury
Eagle Avenue School, West Hempstead
Rosemary Kennedy Center, Wantagh
Specifically, Nassau BOCES is asking voters to approve an expenditure of up to $14.9 million for the expansion and renovation of our building in Greenvale, which currently houses the Alternative Learning Program (ALP), a high school for teenagers who are academically capable but have difficulty with peer and adult relationships. Classrooms, computer labs and related spaces will be added to accommodate a growing demand for services, especially for youngsters who have autism spectrum disorders, including Asperger’s Syndrome. Not only is enrollment expected to grow by 25 to 30 percent, but these students’ Individual Education Plans (IEPs) legally require smaller class sizes (6:1:1 ratio—six students, one teacher, one aide).
The law requires a county-wide vote to approve such a project. “But it’s important to understand that this renovation will come at no additional cost to local school districts or county taxpayers,” says District Superintendent Dr. James D. Mapes.
Since the referendum is county-wide, residents can vote at any one of the five polling locations. No special registration is necessary; eligible adults will be asked to sign a sheet verifying that they are U.S. citizens, 18 years of age or older, and have lived in Nassau County for at least 30 days.
On the ballot:
Shall the Board of Cooperative Educational Services of Nassau County (“BOCES”) be authorized to demolish portions of, construct additions to and reconstruct, alter, improve, and repair, including original equipment, machinery, apparatus, appurtenances and incidental improvements and expenses in connection therewith, the school building known as Greenvale Center, located at the intersection of Walnut and Chestnut Streets, Greenvale, New York, which school buiding is owned by BOCES at a maximum cost of $14,900,000 (the “Project”), to be paid for from funds available from past years appropriations to the BOCES Capital Fund.