News and Events

A letter from Superintendent Fabiatos regarding proposed changes to New York's graduation requirements.

Dear Families,

We are writing to share information regarding a recent announcement from the New York State Education Department (NYSED) and Board of Regents concerning the future of New York State high school graduation requirements.

As part of the state’s NY Inspires initiative, New York is exploring changes to how students demonstrate readiness for graduation and life after high school. At its September meeting, the Board of Regents approved a framework for changes, and additional guidance and regulations are expected later this school year. Until those regulations are formally adopted, all current graduation requirements remain in effect.

It is anticipated that beginning with students who graduate in 2028, New York will transition to a single high school diploma pathway. As part of this change, students will no longer be required to pass a prescribed set of Regents exams as a separate requirement for earning a diploma.

It is important to note that Regents examinations are not being eliminated. They will continue to be administered and remain an important measure of student achievement and mastery of New York State learning standards. While much of the recent discussion has focused on Regents examinations, they are only one component of the broader work underway to modernize New York State's graduation and assessment system. As part of this effort, New York State is exploring additional ways for students to demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and competencies they develop throughout their educational experience and their readiness for success beyond high school.

What This Means for Students Right Now

For the 2026-27 school year, all current graduation and assessment requirements remain in effect. Students should continue to attend classes regularly, complete all required coursework and credits, prepare for and take Regents examinations as scheduled, and follow their current academic plans.

At this time, there are no immediate changes to student schedules, course requirements, or academic expectations.

Looking Ahead

New York State is gradually moving toward a broader approach to determining student readiness for life after high school. This work is guided by the state’s Portrait of a Graduate, which outlines the knowledge, skills, and qualities students should develop before graduation.

The Portrait of a Graduate identifies six key attributes:

●Academically Prepared
●Creative Innovator
●Critical Thinker
●Effective Communicator
●Global Citizen
●Reflective and Future Focused

These attributes reflect the state's vision for ensuring all students graduate ready to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Until any changes take effect, students should continue to follow all existing course, credit, and Regents examination requirements. We will continue to keep families informed as additional guidance becomes available and will approach any future changes with students at the center of our planning and decision-making.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support of our students.

Sincerely,

Cathy Fabiatos
Superintendent of Schools

Dear Holland Community,

Together with the Board of Education, I want to sincerely thank each of you for your continued support of our district and one of the gems of this community. I assure you a thoughtful, conservative, responsible budget was passed, and we look forward to the work ahead. Always moving forward, focusing on what's best for kids!

With gratitude,

Cathy Fabiatos, Superintendent

The Holland Board of Education

Proposition 1 - 2026-27 Budget: 145 Yes, 74 No - PASSED

Proposition 2 - Purchase of Fleet Vehicles: 163 Yes, 57 No - PASSED

Proposition 3 - Establishment of Capital Reserves: 140 Yes, 73 No - PASSED

*Board Member Election - Two Vacancies for Five-Year Terms (July 1, 2026 - June 30, 2031):

• Richard Hope - 168 Votes
• Brian Jones (Write-In) - 6 Votes
   
• Taina Hoffman (Write-In) - 5 Votes
• Michael Farrell (Write-In) - 4 Votes
• Judi Geer (Write-In) - 2 Votes
• Kelly Kensy (Write-In) - 2 Votes
• Daniel Bogucki (Write-In) - 1 Vote
• Lynette Cracchiola (Write-In) - 1 Vote
• Lisa Freeman (Write-In) - 1 Vote
• Scott Hunt (Write-In) - 1 Vote
• Alex Kick (Write-In) - 1 Vote
• Barb Lowe (Write-In) - 1 Vote
• Amy Lukasik (Write-In) - 1 Vote
• Jared Weber (Write-In) - 1 Vote
• Marty Wilke (Write-In) - 1 Vote

▶️ Proposition One:

▶️ Proposition Two:

▶️ Proposition Three:

Interested in running for the Board of Education?

There will be two upcoming vacancies on the Holland Central School District BOE. Both seats carry five-year terms of office running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2031. These positions will be filled during the Budget Vote and Board Member Election on May 19, 2026.

Those pursuing a seat may obtain informational packets at the Business Office beginning Monday, March 2. Packets are available for pickup during regular business hours, between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. To appear on the ballot, candidates must submit their completed petitions with the required signatures by 5 p.m. on April 20, 2026. For more information, please contact District Clerk Sue Radecki at 716-537-8209.

Prospective board members can learn more about the election process and the legal issues of school board leadership at a free workshop provided by the Erie County Association of School Boards. Visit ecasb.org/copy-of-upcoming-events. 🔗