In a recent government meeting, school district officials outlined the significant challenges and budgetary adjustments following the failure of a referendum aimed at enhancing educational programs and staff salaries. The referendum was intended to secure funding for competitive salaries, preschool programs, and increased safety measures, including additional School Resource Officers (SROs) and mental health support. However, its defeat has forced the district to make difficult cuts.

The district has implemented a phased approach to budget reductions, beginning with a $780,000 cut that included the elimination of six elementary teaching positions, one high school counselor, and eight classroom aides. Additionally, a middle school principal was reassigned to a dean position. These measures allowed the district to raise starting teacher salaries from $44,000 to $48,000, although this remains significantly lower than neighboring districts, which offer starting salaries exceeding $60,000.

As the district prepares for the 2023-2024 school year, officials are also grappling with the impending expiration of ESSER grant-funded positions, which will require further budgetary planning. A second phase of cuts is anticipated, with an estimated reduction of $920,000, affecting personnel and operational costs. The district is actively seeking ways to maintain staff levels while managing rising costs, including a $120,000 increase in NYSEIC expenses and a $175,000 hike in utility costs.

Despite these challenges, the district reported a slight increase in student enrollment, with an average daily membership (ADM) of 3,256, up from 3,240 the previous year. This increase is crucial as state funding is closely tied to enrollment numbers. However, officials noted that the overall funding increase of 1.4% from the state does not keep pace with inflation, which has risen significantly in recent years.

The budget for the upcoming year is projected at $25.5 million, reflecting the integration of previously separate curricular materials funding into the education budget. The district remains committed to maintaining a healthy benefits package for staff, which officials believe is essential for retention, especially in a competitive job market.

As the district navigates these financial hurdles, officials emphasized the importance of strategic planning and community support to ensure the sustainability of educational programs and staff compensation in the future.