Following a nearly six month search, Riverhead appointed its new superintendent at a special meeting Tuesday.
In a unanimous vote, the Board of Education voted to approve a contract with Dr. Augustine Tornatore, who currently serves as superintendent in the Liberty Central School District in Sullivan County.
“I’m very proud to be able to serve as your instructional leader moving forward as well as to serve as the advocate for all students within the Riverhead school district and also to serve as the financial steward of the taxpayers in the district,” Mr. Tornatore said, addressing the audience in the high school auditorium.
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Riverhead district residents at a foundation aid rally in January 2020. (Credit: Tara Smith)
After years of fighting for its fair share of school aid, Riverhead schools are poised to receive a windfall of funding under the state budget deal reached between Gov. Andrew Cuomo and state lawmakers this week.
According to budget documents released Tuesday, Riverhead will receive $46.8 million in total aid a 42% increase over last year that translates into $14 million more dollars for the district. An additional $673,254 is also included for funding universal pre-K programs.
Foundation aid, an issue that prompted hundreds of students, parents and teachers to hold a rally in January of 2020, will also rise by 72%.
Once again, the Riverhead community is stepping up to show support to high school seniors.
Through a Facebook group, people can sign up to “adopt” seniors from Riverhead High School, a class that parents say have been struggling amid the pandemic, hybrid learning and grappling with cuts to sports, clubs and music programs on an austerity budget.
“It’s overwhelming and the kids need something now,” said Keri Stromski, who has a daughter in the senior class. “We’re trying to let kids know ‘we love you,’ and we know things are hard, but we’re here.”
Parents or family members who join the group can post a photo of their graduate and write about their accomplishments and interests. Then, anyone wishing to ‘adopt’ the student can get in touch, exchanging words of support or small gifts. “It doesn’t have to be big, it doesn’t have to be splashy,” Ms. Stromski said, adding that a little bit of encouragement goes a long way.