Big academic decisions up for discussion at next COMPASS community meeting

The Northport-East Northport school district is inviting residents to take part in the third of five COMPASS community engagement workshops this Tuesday, February 3 at 7pm at Northport High School.

The meeting will center around academic programs and course offerings in light of declining enrollment and tighter resources in the Northport-East Northport school district. The session will focus on several significant academic questions, including gathering community feedback on the potential to expand the middle school day from eight to nine periods and whether to continue offering both Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate courses.

“These are the kinds of decisions that shape students’ day-to-day experiences and the long-term direction of the district,” said Lynn Cromeyn, Northport High School music teacher and a COMPASS community chair. “Before any decisions are made, it’s important for the board to understand what the community values and where there may be shared priorities or concerns.” 

District officials believe the nationwide trend of declining enrollment requires a careful review of programs, staffing and supports to ensure resources are used responsibly while maintaining strong educational opportunities for students.  

“COMPASS is not about making decisions in a vacuum,” said Northport resident Molly Feeney Wood, a COMPASS community chair. “It’s about learning the facts, asking hard questions and giving the board meaningful input that reflects the experiences of families, staff and community members.” 

The February 3 workshop will begin with a review of district data and information, followed by small-group discussions. Participants will be asked to share written feedback, which will be summarized and presented to the board of education as part of the district’s long-range planning process. 

“Our community’s perspective matters. This process ensures the board hears directly from the people who care deeply about these schools before moving forward,” said Ron Gaudreault, a COMPASS community chair. 

The COMPASS initiative is a yearlong process designed to engage residents, families and staff in shaping a long-range plan for the district. One year ago, on February 18, 2025, the board of education approved a contract with Discovery Works Collaborative for community engagement consultation services; a “facilitating team” composed of community members, district officials and educators, have since been working together with the consultant, and will develop at the initiative’s end a report on the priorities and values of the Northport-East Northport (NEN) school district community. 

The last COMPASS workshop concentrated on future-focused learning, a topic that emerged as a top priority during the district’s first workshop on October 6. Future meetings will focus on schools, spaces and safety (March 18) and financial planning for the future (April 27). A report presenting the COMPASS board’s findings will take place later in the spring. 

COMPASS workshops are open to all residents, including parents, staff, alumni and community members without children in the schools. Complimentary childcare will be available for children five and older. More information about COMPASS and the upcoming workshop is available at northport.k12.ny.us/COMPASS.