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Deposit-Hancock Merger Study

Deposit and Hancock have a long history of sharing and merging services and programs. These collaborations have evolved out of necessity over the years, with discussions dating back to at least 1992, when the first merger study was completed.

Given current economic and enrollment trends, it is essential that we continue to evaluate the long-term possibilities for our Districts.

This website serves as a neutral space to share all public information to our community members as a measure of transparency, and informationwill be updated as the study progresses.

About the Study

The Deposit and Hancock Central School Districts are conducting a joint feasibility study to evaluate whether a potential merger could benefit students, families, and the broader community. This study is designed to gather information, review data, and assess opportunities and challenges associated with a possible merger.

The process includes a thorough analysis of educational programs, finances, facilities, enrollment trends, and transportation, along with opportunities for community input. An independent consultant is guiding the study and will present findings to the Boards of Education.

This study is informational in nature. No decisions have been made, and any future action would require formal review and approval by each district’s Board of Education.

Help Shape the Future of Deposit & Hancock Central School Districts

We are excited to begin the process of exploring how Deposit Central School District and Hancock Central School District may partner and collaborate to better serve our students and families. We will collaborate with Leadership Solutions Advisers to facilitate this New York State Education Department Feasibility Study for the Purposes of Centralization. The purpose of this study is to determine whether the potential merger of our two districts could enhance educational opportunities for students, increase organizational capacity, and promote long-term financial sustainability. Importantly, this process is exploratory and no decisions have been made, and no outcomes are assumed.

We hope you take an opportunity to make your voice heard by either joining one of the stakeholder groups, or by attending in-person meetings and responding to surveys throughout the process. You can see additional information about the process and stakeholder groups below.

Sincerely,

Dean Price, Board President, Deposit CSD • Denise Cook, Superintendent, Deposit CSD

Cliff Johnston, Board President, Hancock CSD • Lori Asquith, Superintendent, Hancock CSD

NYS LGE Planning Grant

As part of our ongoing reorganization study, we are pleased to share that the Deposit and Hancock Central School Districts will be applying for a New York State Department of State Local Government Efficiency (LGE) Planning Grant.

This grant program supports local governments and school districts as they explore ways to improve efficiency and reduce costs. If awarded, the grant would substantially offset the expenses of the merger feasibility study, minimizing the financial impact on both districts.

The New York State Department of State has confirmed that Deposit and Hancock are eligible to apply, provided the formal project begins after January 1, 2026. To streamline the process, the application will be submitted by DCMO BOCES, with Deposit and Hancock serving as co-applicants. This structure allows BOCES to manage consultant payments directly, while ensuring that any awarded grant funds are used to reduce the overall study cost before state aid is calculated.

While applying for the grant will slightly adjust the original study timeline, the potential financial advantages make this a worthwhile step.

Our districts and BOCES partners will continue to keep the community informed as the process moves forward. By pursuing this opportunity, both districts reaffirm their commitment to conducting a thorough, transparent, and cost-effective study—one that keeps our students and communities at the center of every decision.

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