Dr. Demario Strickland delivers March Superintendent's report to BOE

Schools Superintendent Dr. Demario Strickland delivered a wide-ranging March report to the Board of Education that blended academic achievement, community engagement and forward-looking planning, highlighting everything from student success and literacy initiatives to a proposed $276 million budget.

Framing the month as one of both celebration and progress, the Mount Vernon City School District leader began by recognizing the people who support students beyond the classroom. 

“This month, we are celebrating National Social Worker Month, and our outstanding social workers were featured in Mount Vernon’s Jewel Box last week,” he said. “Thank you to all our social workers, whose work with our students is so important to ensuring their success and well-being.”

He also pointed families toward early learning opportunities, noting that the Pre-K 3 lottery and Pre-K 4 early registration are open, with enrollment windows running through late June. 

“We look forward to welcoming your children in the 2026-27 school year,” he said, underscoring the District’s continued investment in its youngest learners.

Literacy and student engagement took center stage during Read Across America Week, which coincided with Women’s History Month.

“I made a stop at Pennington to read ‘Stand Up! 10 Mighty Women Who Made a Change,’” Dr. Strickland said, emphasizing the importance of representation in education. 

“My read-aloud to start the month is just one of the ways that our students are learning about influential women throughout history in their classes,” he said.

That recognition extended into the community, where local leaders were honored for their impact. 

“Continuing the theme of Women’s History Month, The Social Butterfly organization recently honored Mount Vernon women at an event,” Dr. Strickland said. “Our very own Trustee Erica Peterson was an honoree … she makes a tremendous impact on this community, and I am very happy she was receiving this recognition.”

The District also celebrated student achievement tied to Black History Month, he said, noting that a culminating event on March 10 recognized students for excellence both in and out of the classroom.  

Student voice remained a priority in District decision-making and Dr. Strickland highlighted a recent Superintendent’s Advisory Council meeting centered on the Code of Conduct. 

“This month’s Superintendent’s Advisory Council meeting focused on students providing feedback on the Code of Conduct,” he said. “Student feedback for this is so important, especially when it affects them every day. We had insightful conversations that will help guide us as we update and refine our Code of Conduct.”

Academic and career success stories also were front and center. 

“Congratulations to Jason Anderson and Asher Nicholson for their outstanding performances in Monroe University’s ‘America’s Best High School Chef Competition,’” he said. “Jason earned $60,000 in scholarships… and Asher earned $32,000.” 

He pointed to the District’s Career and Technical Education programs as a key driver of such opportunities.

Looking ahead, Dr. Strickland detailed progress on the District’s upcoming budget. 

“We have been working hard to develop a fiscally responsible budget to support our students in the 2026-27 school year,” he said. “I’m proud to say that we have developed a preliminary budget, which I will be sharing with the community.” 

He thanked residents who attended forums and invited continued participation ahead of the May 19 vote.

The proposed budget reflects careful financial planning, with projected increases in state aid and tax revenue offsetting a slight decline in local revenue.

District leaders have taken a conservative approach, anticipating modest growth in foundation aid as they balance resources against student needs.

Two more forums will be held in April to discuss the budget: 5:30 p.m. April 9 at Graham School and 5:30 p.m. April 21 at Pennington School.

Beyond academics, the District is continuing to expand community programming. 

“Open swim at the Mount Vernon High School pool is available in the coming weeks,” Dr. Strickland said, noting opportunities for families to access recreational swimming and lessons through Swim Outreach Inc., which promotes water safety and life-saving skills.

Families also had the opportunity to plan for the future during the District’s Choice Night. 

“Students got a chance to browse their options for high school… it was great to see so many families taking the time to make a thoughtful decision about their next steps,” Dr. Strickland said. “Whichever school students choose, rest assured that they will have the same abundance of opportunities and support at any of our buildings.”

Student leadership development was highlighted through participation in the My Brother’s Keeper program. 

“Our student trustee, Leonard Oduro, made the trip to Albany… he had the opportunity to network, and have discussions focused on leadership and community impact,” Dr. Strickland said, calling the program “a great” resource for students.

The superintendent also addressed operational adjustments stemming from a snowy winter, noting that schools will now be open on Friday, May 22, as half day of instruction. He urged families to update their calendars to ensure compliance with state requirements.

Dr. Strickland also reminded the community that schools would be closed from March 30 to April 3, but that Mount Vernon maintains an on-site food pantry with Feeding Westchester for anyone facing food insecurity.

He concluded by encouraging community participation in a key fundraising event. 

“On April 17, the PTA will host the Edith Kaplan Scholarship Dinner Dance,” he said. “This event supports our seniors with scholarships… Thank you to the PTA Council for putting on this event every year!”