At its May 23 meeting, the Pine Bush school board honored recently tenured faculty and administrators. The board divided its business meeting into two parts in order to hold a reception in between for those receiving tenure.

Joseph Lenz, Assistant Superintendent for Business, thanked the public for passing the district’s budget May 16. Superintendent Brian Dunn also thanked the public for its support and congratulated Lenz on getting his first budget passed. Board president Gretchen Meier added her appreciation.

As the board reviewed policies, Dunn reported that the district is strengthening its policy regarding suicide. Calling it a “delicate issue,” he mentioned the need to continue to heighten suicide awareness and to develop a positive mental health atmosphere. Efforts would include how to handle suicide-related topics in the classroom. The district would implement training for all staff through superintendent conferences and faculty meetings.

Board member Ross Tompkins asked for an update on safety and security. The high school went through a three-hour lockdown on April 26 based on a report of an active shooter at the high school; New York State police determined that the report was unfounded.

Dunn said the district learned a lot from the incident. He said school officials have been holding debriefings and have been meeting with police to improve its handling of lockdowns. He said the district must deal with public’s expectations regarding communication; he plans to hold meetings with parents.

Board member Matt Watkins shared a concern regarding animals coming to playing fields. Lenz said he was aware of the concern. He said only service animals are allowed at the fields, and new signage will be installed to address the issue.

The board will next meet on June 13 at the high school.