Dear Batavia Families and Community,

If you have been following the national and political news the past few weeks, there have been numerous actions or proposed actions that have no doubt generated questions regarding our educational programs at BCSD.
In this week’s update, I want to share factual information without delving into political discourse. As policies continue to evolve at the federal level, the details below reflect the most current information available. However, additional changes may occur, and we will continue to monitor and assess their potential impact on our schools.

With that in mind, here are answers to some of the questions you may have:

What will happen if they eliminate the Department of Education by Executive Order?

At this time, we do not have a definitive answer. However, eliminating a department established by Congress requires congressional approval. Even if such an action were approved, the executive branch would need to reassign the Department of Education’s responsibilities, as federal law mandates certain functions currently overseen by the department.
For example, just in the past few weeks, the executive branch directed the Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights to open several investigations. If the Department of Education were eliminated, another federal agency would have to oversee these responsibilities.

What about all of the grants we receive from the Federal Government? 

BCSD receives several significant federal grants, including Title I, II, and IV grants under ESSA, as well as 611 and 619 grants under IDEA. The total annual allocation of these grants is currently around $1,736,838. While $1,736,838 is a significant amount, it represents only about 2.9% of our annual revenue. Like other responsibilities of the Department of Education, these grants are mandated by congressional acts. If the department were eliminated, the executive branch would have to decide which agency would oversee and distribute these funds.

What is the impact of the elimination of USDA programs for school meals?

The recent termination of two USDA programs—the Local Food for Schools Cooperative Agreement Program (LFS) and the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program (LFPA)—could significantly impact districts nationwide. The full impact remains unclear, as these programs are interconnected with other federal and state initiatives.
Additionally, New York State plays a role in funding school meal programs, though some state programs rely on federal funding. We are closely monitoring this situation, and I anticipate that the New York State budget may include provisions to maintain school meal funding if federal support is reduced or eliminated.

Will all of this impact staffing or programming at BCSD?

At this time, we do not anticipate any immediate changes to staffing or programming as a result of these federal actions, but we will continue to monitor developments. As with school meal funding, we expect the New York State budget and legislative actions to address some of these concerns and provide further clarity.

I understand that potential changes at the federal level can create uncertainty and confusion. Please know that our district leadership team is closely monitoring these developments through our professional networks and resources. Our priority remains unchanged: ensuring our students receive a high-quality education in a stable and supportive environment.

I will continue to provide updates as new information emerges that directly impacts BCSD, and we remain committed to advocating for policies that support our students, staff, and families.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out. 

Have a great weekend.

Jason A. Smith
Superintendent
 
585-343-2480 ext 1000
jasonsmith@bataviacsd.org