PTSA. Third, the Board noted approval for letters to the Commissioner, the Regents, and key legislators, also seeking greater flexibility, which have been developed by Mr. Chambers and other superintendents.

Staff Reports
The Superintendent presented a first draft of the 2006-07 school calendar. After receiving comments and suggestions, the draft will be brought to a January Board meeting with a recommendation for adoption.

Dr. Taylor reported on a successful meeting of the Curriculum Committee/Site-Based Teams, with service efforts again as the unifying theme. Meeting participants shared an overview of cooperative efforts, including relief help to Hurricane Katrina victims. Included in those efforts is a collaboration between students, PTSA, and staff to "adopt" the schools in Kemper, Mississippi, as they cope not only with their own damage, but an influx of new students from the New Orleans area.

Mr. Carlson updated the Board on the continuing progress of the Transportation Study currently under way. Expecting the consultants to return for a few more days of work in the District, he forecast at least a preliminary report by
January.

Board Reports
President Gail Reese offered congratulations to the students whose work is being exhibited in the K-12 art show, which had its debut on December 6. (Their teachers were also congratulated, and samples of the teachers' own work can be

Legislative priorities of the Westchester-Putnam School Boards were discussed briefly, with Mr. Kaplan authorized to represent the Board in an upcoming meeting.

Other Topics
Looking ahead to the January 10 meeting, the Board anticipated not only Budget Hearing I, but the 2004-05 Auditor's Report.

The Board conducted several items in Executive Session. One action item from the public meeting appears in an adjoining box below.