The Board of Education's public hearing on September 16, 2025, regarding the proposed New Dawn Charter School III in Newburgh highlighted significant concerns from local education officials about the potential impact on the district's resources and student performance. The proposal aims to enroll up to 350 students aged 16 to 21 who are overage and undercredited, with an estimated annual cost of $9.6 million, totaling over $32.7 million over five years.

Local officials expressed apprehension that these costs would arise from transportation, special education services, and the provision of textbooks and technology, which could strain the district's budget and resources for existing students. They referenced a report from the New York State School Boards Association (NISBA), indicating that charter schools have historically imposed financial burdens on public school districts, citing examples from Buffalo and Rochester where similar fiscal challenges have emerged.

The Newburgh School District emphasized its unique educational offerings, including plans for a Career and Technical Education (CTE) center and existing credit recovery programs, arguing that they already provide the necessary support for students in the targeted demographic. Concerns were also raised about the academic performance of charter schools, noting that many do not adhere to the same performance standards as public schools. Data from NISBA indicated that charter schools in similar areas have underperformed compared to public schools.

The Board of Education previously passed a resolution opposing the establishment of New Dawn Charter School, reflecting a unified stance against the charter's development. As discussions continue, the implications of this proposal remain a critical issue for the Newburgh community, with potential effects on funding, educational quality, and student outcomes at the forefront of local concerns.