fivendor who has demonstrated
successful experience in other Westchester school districts, and it features the capacity for direct and simultaneous phone calls to every Byram Hills family and every staff member.

Before the system is used in any emergency situation, it will be subjected to a "test run" to confirm data, and to give parents notice of the subsequent start up. Success of the system will mean an end to the traditional "telephone tree" method of notification, but emergency news will continue to be posted on the District's website, on CTV20, and local TV and radio.

STAFF REPORTS
Mr. Chambers congratulated athletes, student organizers, the Booster Club, the coaching staff, and Athletic Director Mike Gulino on the great excitement and attendance of Homecoming Weekend, September 30 and October 1. All Byram Hills teams drew exceptional attendance; pep rallies at the schools stirred up excitement; the Board dedicated the new fields; and the Booster Club provided festive refreshments. Along with all these activities, the girls' swim team, aided by several coaches (including swim coach Duane Smith) and high school Assistant Principal Melissa Stahl, raised more than $2,000 for New Orleans relief in one of the most popular attractions of the day-a dunking tank.

Dr. Taylor foreshadowed the expected impact of new testing required by Federal legislation, explaining that teacher and student time on testing in grades 3-8 would grow in the 2005-06 school year.

Mr. Carlson presented a Budget Committee Charge and Guidelines for use in development of the
2006-07 District budget; the Board adopted these guidelines.

Mr. Carlson also updated the Board on the expected arrival in the District of the consultants employed to conduct a study of the entire transportation operation.

BOARD REPORTS
The Board heard committee updates, and charged new member Brett Summers with representation duties at the late October convention of the New York State School Boards Association. Looking ahead in their calendar, the Board confirmed October 25 as a short business meeting to be followed by continuation of the Board Retreat, and November 8 as the date for a reception to honor National Merit and Cum Laude students, and an update on construction.

An executive session followed the public meeting.

OTHER ACTION ITEMS
A summary of other actions taken by the Board appears in an adjoining box.