Parents, students and staff members in the Carmel Central School District had another opportunity to voice their opinions about the multimillion-dollar deficit.

The third meeting on the subject happened at Matthew Patterson Elementary School after the district announced it is considering a transition to the Princeton Model. At the second meeting last Thursday, the district revealed that the new plan would consolidate grade levels and buildings. Additionally, it could result in job cuts, reduction of after-school activities and other program adjustments.

The board president assures that all decisions are made with students' best interests in mind, and some board members argue that these cuts are necessary due to declining enrollment, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the district is staffed appropriately.

"We have to take a long look at whether we are paying for the right number of teachers, the right number of administrators and the right number of staff to support our district," says James Wise, a board trustee.

Parents are worried the possible new program would hurt their children in the long run.

"This elementary school right here is the crown jewel of the Carmel Central School District. So if there has been any talk of closing schools or combining schools or doing anything of that nature, this should not be on the docket," says Dan Minieri.

"I don't think that's a good idea. I think there will be way too many kids in classes, and these kids deserve an education that we pay high taxes for," says Shannon Lamberti.

And when it comes to taxes, some are demanding to know where their money is going.

"Our taxes have been going up and up. It started two years ago. And it's not fair that now the school budget is actually going to be cut," says a parent named Celia.

The school board president says all these choices are being made with students' best interests in mind. Also, some board members say the cuts are necessary as enrollment continues to dwindle.

Another special Board of Education meeting set for Tuesday evening at 5:30 p.m.