Merger Study 2024-25
The vote on the proposed merger via centralization of the Livingston Manor and Roscoe Central School Districts will take place from noon to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19, at the gymnasiums at each district. For the vote to be approved, a majority of voters in each district must vote yes on the measure.
Please see below for more information about the merger proposal, the study and the process. Questions or concerns may also be directed to Superintendent John Evans at john.evans@lmcs.us, jevans@roscoe.k12.ny.us, 607-498-4126, ext. 6105, or 845-439-4400, ext. 1201, or contact a member of either district’s school board.
Voter information
Who can vote?
Voters must be 18 years old, a U.S. citizen and a district resident for at least 30 days and be registered to vote at their county board of elections, which will automatically register you to vote at the district. The last day to register with the district is Dec. 17. Registration may be done weekdays between 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. at each district’s main office.
How can I vote if I am unable to vote in person?
Qualified voters may request an absentee ballot application by contacting Marlyn Peters, clerk for both districts, at Marlyn.Peters@lmcs.us, mpeters@roscoe.k12.ny.us or 845-439-4400, ext. 1201. Absentee voting applications must be received by Dec. 13 for those who will be mailing a completed ballot. The last day for ballot applications to be received in person and the completed ballot delivered by hand is Dec. 18. Ballots must be received by the district clerk by 5 p.m. Dec. 19 to be counted.
I signed the petition in support of the merger? Do I still need to vote?
Yes. The petition signatures collected earlier in the year were only an indication you would support the merger. The Dec. 19 vote is a binding referendum, and only votes cast on that measure will determine if the districts merge.
What will be on the ballot?
Should the districts merge?
If the districts merge, how many members should be on the Board of Education: 5, 7 or 9?
If the districts merge, how long should the term of office for Board of Education members be: 3, 4 or 5 years?
Timeline
Dec. 19, 2024
Merger proposal vote: noon to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19 at the Livingston Manor CSD and Roscoe CSD gymnasiums. If the vote is approved by a majority of voters in both districts, the following would take place:
January/February 2025
Prospective Board of Education members would gather signatures and file petitions to seek election to the new district Board of Education
February 2025
The new Board of Education would be elected, with the number of members and length of terms decided by voters during the Dec. 19 vote.
May 20, 2025
Voters in both districts would have the opportunity to vote on the merged district’s budget in the annual school budget vote.
July 1, 2025
The new merged district would begin operation. A restructuring committee appointed by the board would make recommendations to the board on grade configuration and building utilization. The board would determine building usage, operation and structure, with the implementation to take place gradually over the 2025-26 school year and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
The study recommended that both school buildings remain open. Is this necessary?
Yes. Neither building can fit the combined current student populations and program offerings. Currently the combined student population will not all fit in the LMCS building. At a tremendous cost savings to both districts and in line with state and federal special education policies and regulations surrounding LRE (Least Restrictive Environment) we have more in-district special education classrooms. These rooms are capped at 12, 8 or 6 students. So rooms that were once used for classes and grade level sections with 25+ students, now can only service 12, 8 or 6.
The additional aid money is great but how do we know the money will be put to good use?
As part of the annual budget development process several budget workshops and board meeting budget discussions occur. Detailed breakdowns of the budget are available to the public upon request for those members of the community interested in closely monitoring the district’s budgeting practices.
Will there be a public vote on the merger?
Yes. A vote is scheduled for noon-8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19, in the gymnasiums of both districts.
Can the boards merge the districts without a public vote?
No. The petition process being used does not circumvent a public vote. The petitions with the required number of signatures only demonstrates to NYSED public support for a merger.
Will the merger keep coming up until it passes?
Possibly? Both boards understand and appreciate the potential benefits both educationally and financially associated with a successful school merger. They are committed to providing the best possible education they can for their students while being fiscally responsible to the taxpayers. The proposed changes to the Foundation Aid formula will make keeping the current programs and services in both districts in place more challenging.
In last year’s Executive budget the Governor proposed eliminating “Save Harmless." What would the budget increases in both schools be to absorb those cuts?
In LMCS a $1.3 million dollar loss in aid would equate to an additional 13.67% tax increase over the normal annual expenses.
For RCS the $100,000 loss in aid would equate to an additional 1.76% tax increase.
What will the public vote on if each school board decides to proceed?
There will be three pieces to a merger vote:
Whether or not to merge
If there is a merger, whether you would prefer to have a board with 5, 7, or 9 board members
How long the term of 3, 4, or 5 years of those board members should be
How will the merger improve educational offerings for students?
A merger can help add more academic programs, extracurricular activities, and specialized services by using the combined resources to provide a broader range of courses, more advanced placement options, and more extracurricular activities that might not be possible in smaller, separate districts.
How will a merger affect student transportation?
It’s an understandable and fair concern that no one desires longer bus rides if the districts were to merge. With the unique opportunity of each school's campus operations being just 6.8 miles apart, it is feasible to redesign bus routes that will be equal to or, in some cases, shorter than current distances and durations. During the transition process, bus routes and transportation logistics will need to be carefully planned to minimize distances and durations of bus routes. Specific parameters can be stipulated within the transportation contract limiting the maximum student ride times not to exceed the current longest student rides in either district.
What will happen to staff if a merger takes place?
If a merger occurs, the newly elected Board of Education will make the final staffing decisions, following the recommendation of the newly appointed Superintendent of Schools during a transition process. Generally, staff from both districts will merge into a single seniority list based on their certifications and appointments in current districts. In most cases, the additional incentive aid for the merger will allow the new district to manage reductions through natural attrition rather than immediate layoffs.
How will contracts for teachers and staff be handled?
The existing contracts of each district remain in effect for those employees identified within the recognition clause of each current contract until the newly formed merged district negotiates new collective bargaining agreements. Therefore, the employees maintain their current salary and benefits until the new district's Board of Education and Superintendent mutually negotiate new terms in good faith.
What happens to retiree benefits in a merger?
Each district's current contracts are still in force, and the current retiree benefits are still in place. As a result, retirees will keep their current benefits under new agreements negotiated, and they will only be affected if there are changes to active employee benefits during the mutually agreed contracts with the new district's superintendent and board of education. This would be the same for any school district
Why does the state want to merge small, rural schools, and why is incentive money being offered?
The state encourages the merger of small, rural districts to address challenges like declining enrollment, limited resources, and inefficiencies due to duplication of services. By consolidating, districts can reduce administrative costs, pool resources, and offer enhanced educational opportunities. The state provides Reorganization Incentive Aid as a financial bridge to cover initial expenses and adjustments during the merger process. This incentive reduces strain due to finances, allowing the districts to transition smoothly while making long-term improvements. From the state’s perspective, merged districts operate more efficiently and maximize taxpayer dollars, benefiting students and the broader community.
In your knowledge of merged schools, could you describe how schools function after the extra money runs out? Have they encountered problems?
After the incentive aid expires, districts that plan well often transition successfully. These schools typically use the incentive period to invest in lasting programs, restructure operations for efficiency and build financial reserves. However, districts that do not adequately prepare may encounter challenges such as budget deficits, program cuts, or increased reliance on reserves. Much like any organization, if there is effective leadership, there is a much better chance for long-term success.
Is there a possibility that the incentive aid may change from the presented amounts if the aid formula or state leadership changes?
While it is true that incentive aid is subject to the stability of state policies and leadership priorities, since the inception of school district reorganization in NYS, the incentive aid promise has never been broken—two World Wars, a Great Depression, 911, the Great Recession, etc. The presented aid amounts are based on current laws. Funding formulas and allocations can only change with changes in the statutes.
Are both districts' budgets sustainable under current trends and predictions?
The Office of the State Comptroller’s Fiscal Stress Monitoring System has Livingston Manor listed with No Designation and Roscoe identified as Susceptible to fiscal stress. However, projections in both districts indicate that expenditures are growing at a faster rate than revenues, leading to the likelihood of budget deficits as early as the next fiscal year. Without adjustments—such as reducing costs, increasing revenues, or leveraging efficiencies from a merger—both districts may face challenges in maintaining balanced budgets in the future. The feasibility study suggests that merging the districts offers a viable path to enhance sustainability through resource sharing and operational efficiencies, reducing the financial risks each district currently faces.
Will property taxes increase after the merger?
Financial projections indicate that a merger would result in stable property taxes in the short term due to state Reorganization Incentive Aid. The design of this aid is to offset costs for a period of 14 years. Long-term impacts depend on financial planning by the merged district. It is fair to conclude that overtime, merger or no merger, state fiscal policies and historical trends clearly indicate that taxes will likely increase on an annual basis to ensure continuity of services.
It is also important to note that the annual district vote authorizes a tax levy amount. The district does not assign individual homeowner property tax—just the total levy amount. Individual property tax amounts are based on local assessments.
What are the benefits of merger?
Vision and Planning
A newly formed district will have the unique opportunity to plan and develop a new school experience for our students and the entire school community. This planning is an opportunity to bring forward the best aspects, programs and resources each individual district has to offer while searching for new, enhanced opportunities that can only be attained together. Once a decision has been made by the voters in both communities to merge and a new Board of Education is in place, a transition team and restructuring committee made up of board members, administration, teachers, support staff, parents, community members and even students will be established to guide the transparent, inclusive work of moving forward. These transition teams should begin by focusing on everything the district wants to achieve for its students.
Through a merger the unique talents, interests and NYS teaching certifications held by the teachers and staff in each individual district are combined. Once the full restructuring has occurred, having separate buildings dedicated to specific grade levels, programs and resources will allow the new district to greatly expand the educational and extracurricular opportunities for all students.
A school district merger can bring several educational benefits to students, improving opportunities and outcomes. Below is a detailed outline:
Expanded Academic Offerings
Broader Course Selection:
Students can access a wider variety of classes, including Advanced Placement (AP), dual enrollment college class, and electives like arts, music, and vocational training.Specialized Programs:
Merged districts may afford specialized academic programs, such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) tracks, gifted education, culinary arts, or language immersion programs.Career and Technical Education (CTE):
Access to modern facilities and resources for vocational training prepares students for diverse career paths.
See examples of possible expanded academic opportunities here.
Enhanced Extracurricular Opportunities
Sports and Arts Programs:
A larger district may fund a more extensive range of extracurricular activities, such as competitive sports, theater, band, and academic clubs.Inclusive Participation:
Students with varied interests and talents can find niche activities outside of sports suited to their goals, enhancing personal growth and school engagement.
Improved Access to Resources
Updated Facilities:
Merged districts may pool resources to upgrade schools with better technology, science labs, libraries, and athletic facilities.Qualified Educators:
Larger districts can attract and retain highly qualified teachers, offering students instruction from specialists in diverse subjects.Special Education Services:
Enhanced funding and staffing support for students with disabilities, including tailored instruction and expanded in-house therapy services.
Equity in Education
Addressing Disparities:
Combines resources to reduce inequities between schools, ensuring all students receive a high-quality education regardless of location.Increased Funding per Student:
Larger tax bases can provide a more equitable distribution of funds, improving student-teacher ratios, classroom resources, and extracurricular programs.
Social and Cultural Benefits
Diverse Peer Interactions:
Merging districts often unite students from different socioeconomic, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds, promoting inclusivity and cultural competency.Sense of Community:
Collaborating under one district identity can foster unity, school pride, and shared goals among students.
Improved Academic Performance
Data-Driven Approaches:
Merged districts can invest in analytics and interventions to track and improve student performance.Professional Development for Teachers:
Teachers benefit from shared resources and training, leading to more effective instruction and better student outcomes.
Preparation for Postsecondary Success
College Readiness:
Expanded counseling services and programs such as college prep courses, scholarships, and mentoring.Workforce Readiness:
Enhanced career education prepares students for the job market with internships, certifications, and industry partnerships.
Stability and Long-Term Opportunities
Sustainable Funding:
A merged district can optimize budgeting and planning, ensuring consistent funding for academic programs and services.Innovative Initiatives:
Larger districts may have the means to experiment with new teaching methods, technology integration, and curriculum updates.
By pooling resources, expertise, and opportunities, a school district merger can create a richer, more equitable educational environment for students. These benefits ultimately enhance learning, broaden horizons, and prepare students for future success.
Some Examples of Specific Expanded Academic Offerings That Could be Possible in a Merged District Should Student Interest to Support Them Exist
Below are some specific examples of classes that potentially could be offered in a successfully merged district. The combined professional talents, expertise and financial support associated with a merger would lay the foundation for countless new classes and opportunities for our students. The additional incentive aid would allow for the additional training, professional development, materials and equipment necessary for the following enhanced educational opportunities.
Core Academic Courses
Advanced Placement (AP) Courses:
Classes such as AP Calculus, AP Biology, AP U.S. History, and AP English Literature could become available, allowing students to earn college credit.World Languages:
Students may gain access to a wider range of languages such as Spanish, French, German, Mandarin Chinese, or American Sign Language (ASL).
Elective Courses
STEM-Focused Electives:
Robotics and Automation
Coding and App Development
Engineering Design and 3D Printing
Environmental Science Projects
Humanities Electives:
Creative Writing
Journalism and Media Studies
Psychology and Sociology
Philosophy and Ethics
Fine Arts and Performing Arts
Visual Arts:
Digital Photography and Graphic Design
Ceramics and Pottery
Advanced Painting and Sculpture
Performing Arts:
Advanced Band, Orchestra, or Choir
Theater Arts and Stagecraft
Dance Choreography and Performance
Specialty Programs
Business and Entrepreneurship:
Principles of Marketing and Advertising
Financial Literacy and Investment Strategies
Entrepreneurship Incubator Programs
Agriculture and Environmental Studies:
Sustainable Agriculture and Aquaponics
Forestry and Conservation Science
Horticulture and Landscaping
Plant Science and Food Production
Culinary Arts:
The Farm to Table Experience
Advanced Food Science
Advanced Baking & Desserts
Technology and Media
Broadcasting and Film Production:
Students can learn video editing, audio production, and storytelling for modern media.Game Design and Animation:
Classes in creating 2D and 3D games or animated films using software like Unity and Blender.Digital Music production:
Classes in creating, editing and mixing music using various digital media technologies.
Physical Education and Wellness
Outdoor Adventure Education:
Activities like hiking, rock climbing, and survival skills.Specialized Fitness Classes:
Yoga, Pilates, weight training, Spartan training or martial arts.
Interdisciplinary and Experiential Learning
Capstone Projects:
Multi-disciplinary courses that encourage students to address real-world problems, such as climate change or urban development.Service-Learning Electives:
Community outreach combined with academic work, like developing proposals for local civic projects.
Elementary Program Enhancements
Additional Academic Supports and Services:
Small group individual supports that focus on core academic skill developmentMotor Lab and Adaptive Physical Education:
Multi-sensory fine motor skill development and adaptive physical education classesSTEAM Academies in 5th & 6th Grades:
Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math electives in the upper elementary grades.Transition Grade Level Classes:
Multigrade transition classes that allow struggling students extra time to develop grade level proficiencies.
By offering these expanded courses and electives, merged school districts can cater to a diverse range of student interests, preparing them for college, careers, and lifelong learning.