The Newburgh Board of Education has fielded concerns over approved conference attendance in various parts of the country during several recent meetings. Specifically, one conference slated to take place in Las Vegas is now under consideration for rescission at the upcoming board meeting.

The conference in question, the “Innovative Schools Summit Conference,” is scheduled for July 7 to 12 in Las Vegas. Listed as item 11.1 on the March 19 board agenda, the conference proposes sending five individuals at a cost not to exceed $4,000.

Hosted by AccuTrain, a professional development organization for educators, the Innovative Schools Summit Conference offers multiple conferences nationwide for educators and educational professionals. These include the Innovative Teaching Strategies Conference, the School Climate & Culture Forum, the At-Risk Students Conference, and the Wired Differently/Trauma-Informed Schools Conference.

Dr. Natasha Freeman-Mack, during the board meeting on April 23 following public comments and executive session, announced the district’s intention to propose rescinding the decision to send individuals to the conference at the next board meeting.

“We are seeking professional development opportunities closer to the district during the school year,” Freeman-Mack said. “Initially, attending a summer conference was considered to minimize impact on students and staff within the buildings.”

Additionally, seven individuals are set to attend the “National Community Schools & Family Engagement Conference” in Atlanta, Georgia, in May, with a cost of $2,500 per attendee.

Last month the Newburgh City Council faced criticism after approving a contract of more than $19,000 with Mohonk Mountain House to book 10 rooms for a two-night stay for a conference, in addition to paying the conference facilitator $24,900.

The next board meeting t is scheduled for Tuesday, May 14, at 6 p.m.