On Thursday night, the Homer-Center School Board approved a resolution concerning the state funding allocations, expressing dissatisfaction with the current formula.
The disparity in state funding compared to similar districts has been an often discussed issue, according to board member Gerald Bertig. He said that the board is not happy with the lack of state subsidies coming in, which requires higher taxes for the district. While the board is calling on state government officials about the issue, Bertig said that citizens should also call on state legislators and voice their concerns.
Prior to the start of the meeting, the district hosted a special ceremony to re-dedicate a grand piano to Anthony Cotroneo, who taught music for 11 years in the district before his untimely death in 1964. On hand for the ceremony was Cotroneo’s son Alan, who said his father’s name was well known for the district’s music program. He also mentioned that in his short time, he grew the music program and helped many students become music teachers.
The piano will be on permanent display outside the school auditorium along with a plaque commemorating Cotroneo.
(In the first photo, Alan Cotroneo and his wife Joyce with the plaque commemorating Anthony Cotroneo’s contribution to the district’s music program. At right is Karen Marshall, a member of the Homer-Center Music Staff. Photos by Josh Widdowson)
