East Ramapo parents demand improved education and nutrition at school board meeting

The East Ramapo Central School District Board of Education meeting held on March 7, 2025, at Chestnut Ridge Middle School addressed several pressing issues concerning student welfare and community engagement. The meeting featured a series of parent testimonials highlighting concerns about educational quality, student nutrition, and the need for improved communication between the school district and families.

The first speaker, a parent and president of the Marching Band Parents Association, emphasized the dedication of students involved in extracurricular activities, particularly the marching band. She noted the importance of community support and suggested that future meetings be held at Spring Valley High School to make attendance more accessible for families facing transportation challenges.

The discussion shifted to the need for clearer communication regarding school behavior policies. The speaker advocated for the creation of a video resource to explain these policies in simple terms, making them more understandable for parents and students from diverse backgrounds. She expressed concern about the current lack of clarity, which can lead to misunderstandings within the community.

Another parent addressed the board regarding the upcoming reception for the "Sheroes" event, which honors women who have significantly contributed to the East Ramapo community. She encouraged attendance to support both the honorees and the students involved in the event.

A third speaker raised serious concerns about the overall educational performance within the district, questioning why only a small percentage of schools were achieving satisfactory scores. She highlighted the deteriorating conditions of school facilities and the inadequate food provided to students, which she described as neglectful. The speaker stressed the importance of meeting students' basic needs to foster a conducive learning environment.

The meeting concluded with a call for the board to prioritize the needs of all students and to foster a collaborative community spirit. The discussions underscored the urgent need for the district to address these issues to ensure that every child receives a quality education and the support necessary for their success.