Amity BOE Budget & Initiatives: Forums, Policies, College Credit

Community Engagement on School Budget

The Amity Board of Education has approved a $58.1 million budget for the 2025-2026 school year, representing a 2.93% increase over the current budget. This positions Amity among the lowest 10% of school district budget increases statewide. To ensure transparency and encourage community involvement, the Board’s Communications Committee hosted a virtual Q&A session on April 10, with an in-person forum scheduled for April 24 at High Plains Community Center. These events complement the official Public Budget Hearing held on April 7, all leading up to the Amity Budget Referendum on May 6. Residents are strongly encouraged to attend, ask questions, and make their voices heard at the polls.

Welcoming the Next Class of Students

Spring marks an exciting time as Amity schools prepare to welcome new students. Amity Regional High School introduced the Class of 2029 earlier this year with an orientation for eighth-grade students and their families. Course selections for the upcoming year were completed by February. Meanwhile, both middle schools hosted information nights for incoming seventh-grade families, outlining academic programs, extracurricular activities, and student support services. Throughout the spring, principals and counselors are visiting local elementary schools to meet with future Amity students, helping to ease their transition into the district.

Expanded College Credit Opportunities for Students

Amity Regional High School is expanding its dual enrollment program for the 2025-2026 academic year, offering students the opportunity to earn both high school and college credits. New courses approved through the University of Connecticut include Philosophy, If You Love It, Teach It, and Introduction to Special Education. Additionally, courses such as Understanding Film, Filmmaking III, College Algebra, and African American/Black and Puerto Rican/Latino Studies have been approved through Sacred Heart University. In total, more than 20 dual enrollment courses will be available next year, giving students a valuable head start on their college education.

Board Reviews Policy Updates

At its April meeting, the Board of Education held initial readings of two significant policy updates. The first is the Connecticut School Climate Policy, a statewide requirement aimed at strengthening efforts to create safe and respectful learning environments. This policy represents a comprehensive update to existing anti-bullying guidelines. The second policy under review concerns student cell phone use, with proposed revisions designed to promote a classroom environment free from digital distractions, in line with state education recommendations. Final decisions on these policies are expected in the coming months.

Annual Student Assessments Underway

Students districtwide are participating in their spring assessments. Seniors pursuing the Seal of Biliteracy completed language proficiency testing earlier this season, while all juniors took the SAT on March 13. Juniors also completed the state-mandated science assessment in early April, with eighth graders scheduled for their science test in May. Middle school students will complete their English and math assessments in late May, and Advanced Placement exams begin May 5 for participating high school students.

Celebrating National Merit Finalists

Congratulations to Amity seniors Advaith Nair, Ian Stoltenberg, and Benjamin Wang, who have advanced to finalist status in the prestigious National Merit Scholarship Program. We commend them for this outstanding academic achievement.

Record-Breaking Success for Community Sock Drive

The Amity community once again demonstrated its generosity through the Ray’s Box of Sox fundraiser. This year, the district collected an impressive 2,687 pairs of socks—far surpassing the typical annual contribution of 1,500 pairs. Donations from Amity schools and Racebrook Elementary will support individuals in need across Ansonia, Hamden, North Haven, Milford, and New Haven. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this effort to provide comfort and warmth to our neighbors.

Spring Community Forum: "What Makes Amity Special"

We are excited to welcome parents and students to our Spring 2025 Community Forum — an evening of conversation with Board of Education members and school staff. This forum is a wonderful opportunity to connect, ask questions, and explore what makes the Amity experience so special. Our focus this spring is “What Makes Amity Special” — a showcase of the many learning opportunities, programs, and experiences that enrich our students' lives, both inside and outside the classroom. Whether you're a current Amity family or soon to be joining our community, you'll discover how Amity supports every student’s growth and interests. The Spring Community Forum will be held on Monday, May 5^th beginning at 6:30 pm in the ARHS Library Media Center

Addressing Problem Gambling Awareness

In recognition of Problem Gambling Awareness Month, the district hosted an educational webinar in March for families across the BOWA region. The session, led by Jessica Simone, School Engagement Specialist, featured Kaitlin Brown of the Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling and Stephen Matos from MCCA's Bettor Choice Program. The webinar is available for viewing on the district website.