The proposed merger between the Livingston Manor and Roscoe school districts has support among district residents, according to a recent public opinion survey conducted by the school districts.

The anonymous online survey was shared with district residents in March and April. About 120 people responded, most of whom were residents of the Livingston Manor school district. In the survey, 49% of respondents said they agree that the proposed merger is a good idea. About one-third of respondents said they disagree, with the remaining respondents unsure or expressing no opinion.

To view the complete survey report, visit https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ddtieilfM-QU0NGOqGlZaX1UZnvok3b8eK6ie8DQ06s/edit?usp=sharing

Residents of both districts will also have the chance to share opinions about the proposed merger in an exit survey that will be conducted in connection with the May 17 school budget and Board of Education votes. Polls will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. in Livingston Manor and in Roscoe. All in-person voters will have the opportunity to complete an anonymous exit survey while at the polls.

The Livingston Manor and Roscoe school districts entered into a merger study — the required first step before districts can merge — in December 2021. The study began in March and will continue through the spring. To complete the study, consultants meet with a committee made up of students, employees and residents of both school districts to compile information about the districts and provide information that could inform a possible merger. Meetings are open to the public.  

The public is invited to attend the next meeting on May 16 at Livingston Manor Central School, which will cover facilities and transportation. Future meetings will look at staffing (June 6), and finances (June 28). A building tour will be offered in Livingston Manor beginning at 5:15 p.m., with the meeting to follow at 6. A Zoom link will also be provided for anyone who wishes to attend remotely. More information about the proposed merger is at https://www.roscoe.k12.ny.us/page/merger-study and https://www.lmcs.k12.ny.us/domain/1136