Amity Update: 2026 Budget, Awards, and District News

Amity Budget Update

The Amity Board of Education has approved a proposed 2026-2027 budget of $58,809,212, representing an increase of $700,213, or 1.20 percent, over the current fiscal year. The budget was developed over several months, beginning in August, with input from district staff, the Amity Finance Committee, and the Board of Education, and has been presented to each of the three town Boards of Finance. The approved increase is below the 1.53 percent guideline recommended by the Amity Finance Committee. The budget also includes targeted investments to support student learning, including adjustments to the middle school schedule that will expand world language and elective opportunities, as well as the addition of a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program at the high school. A budget referendum will take place on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the regular polling locations in Bethany, Orange, and Woodbridge. All registered voters are encouraged to participate.

Amity Awards for Excellence

The Amity Board of Education is proud to recognize two outstanding members of our school community as recipients of this year’s Amity Awards for Excellence. Matt Benton, a paraeducator with the Amity Transition Academy, has been named the Award of Excellence recipient. Mr. Benton is known for his calm and welcoming presence, helping to create a positive and inclusive environment where students feel supported and valued. He builds strong, authentic connections with students and consistently meets them where they are, supporting both their growth and independence. His work extends across many areas of the district, including Unified Sports and extracurricular programs, and he is widely recognized for his teamwork, flexibility, and unwavering focus on student success.

Jen Blais, a Spanish teacher at Amity Middle School Bethany, has been named Teacher of the Year. An Amity graduate, Ms. Blais has dedicated more than two decades to the district and brings a deep sense of pride and purpose to her work. She creates a classroom environment where students feel welcomed, engaged, and inspired to learn. Her commitment to student-centered instruction, along with her positive and compassionate approach, fosters both academic growth and a strong sense of belonging. Ms. Blais is also a leader among her colleagues, sharing her expertise and supporting school-wide initiatives while building meaningful connections with students and families.

Both honorees will be recognized by the Board at the June 8, 2026, Board meeting.

Board of Education Honors 2025 Class L State Champion Boys Cross Country Team

The Board of Education proudly recognized the Class L State Champion Boys Cross Country Team on March 23, 2026. Competing against the top teams in the state at Wickham Park, the Spartans captured the Class L title with a strong team performance. The team was led by senior Luke Cushing, who won the individual Class L state championship. The Spartans’ success was driven by depth and teamwork, with multiple runners contributing key finishes that secured the overall title. The following athletes and coaches were recognized: Luke Cushing, Liam Van Tonder, Lucas Cohen, Cooper Tomaszewski, 

Benjamin Tomaszewski, Sam Bayer, Truman Kaczmarczyk, Evan Griffiths, Charlie Stabach, Adrian Koola, Assistant Coach Gary Pope, and Coach Chris Elledge.

Congratulations to all the athletes and coaches on an outstanding season and a well-earned state championship.

Amity Creative Theater Presents My Fair Lady

Amity Creative Theater’s recent production of My Fair Lady was a tremendous success, drawing strong attendance from across the community over multiple performances. The well-attended shows reflect the continued enthusiasm and support for the performing arts throughout the Amity community. This classic musical, featuring a talented cast and live student musicians, showcased the dedication, creativity, and collaboration of students both on stage and behind the scenes. From the performers and orchestra to the technical crew, stage management, and costumes and set design teams, the production was a true collaborative effort. Special recognition is extended to Director Rob Kennedy for his leadership and vision, as well as to all student performers, musicians, and backstage crew members whose hard work brought the production to life. Appreciation is also shared for the parents, volunteers, and supporters of Amity Creative Theater (ACT), whose ongoing commitment plays a vital role in the success of the program. Gratitude is extended to ACT’s corporate sponsors for their generous support, which helps sustain and enhance performing arts opportunities for students. Congratulations to all involved on a highly successful production.

Board Communications Committee Outreach

Members of the Board of Education’s Communications Committee have been actively attending PTSO meetings at the middle and high school levels, as well as PTO meetings in each of the elementary districts. Led by Dr. Carol Oladele, this outreach effort is designed to strengthen communication with families across all three towns and to help bridge the transition that can occur when students move into the Amity district in seventh grade. These conversations have provided an opportunity to highlight the continuity of BOWA’s K-12 programming and to reaffirm the districts’ ongoing commitment to supporting all students. Committee members have been able to answer questions, share information about district initiatives, and demonstrate how current work at the secondary level will have a lasting impact on today’s elementary and middle school students. The reception from PTO and PTSO groups has been overwhelmingly positive. The Board of Education greatly appreciates the warm welcome extended by these organizations and values the opportunity to build stronger connections with families throughout the Amity community.

The Trident Student Newspaper Presentation

Members of The Trident staff presented to the Board of Education at its March 23rd meeting, highlighting the continued success and evolution of Amity’s student newspaper. The Trident has earned statewide and national recognition, including being named a first-place winner in the American Scholastic Press Association’s annual competition for several years in a row. Students shared the launch of the new Trident website, expanding the publication’s reach through an online platform while continuing to produce a print edition. The Board of Education supported funding for The Trident in the 2026-2027 budget, helping to sustain and grow the program. This investment supports opportunities for students to develop skills in writing, editing, research, and digital media, while contributing to a vibrant and informed school community. Recognition is extended to the student writers and editors, as well as advisor Ms. Clark and website manager Ms. Forcier, for their work in supporting this successful program.

Record-Breaking Ray’s Box of Sox

Amity students once again demonstrated their commitment to service through the annual Ray’s Box of Sox drive, named in honor of former AMSO student Ray Heenie. Thanks to the generosity of students, staff, and community members, nearly 4,400 pairs of socks were collected for donation to those in need. This total reflects a strong showing compared to previous years and highlights the continued growth and impact of this meaningful initiative. This effort is a powdefinesexample of the compassion and civic responsibility that define the Amity community. The Board of Education extends its appreciation to all who contributed and helped make a difference for others.