Ballston Spa Central School District unveils budget plans for fiscal year 2026

The Ballston Spa Central School District Board of Education meeting on April 2, 2025, highlighted significant developments in the district's budget and educational initiatives, directly impacting students and families in the community.

A key focus of the meeting was the ongoing budget discussions, with Superintendent Dr. Duka and Mr. Sirianni presenting a draft budget that aims to address a projected deficit while maintaining educational quality. The proposed budget stands at $2.9 million, with a notable emphasis on managing rising employee benefits costs, particularly in health insurance. The district is experiencing substantial increases in medical insurance expenses, a trend seen across many employers. However, the district has managed to mitigate some of these costs through strategic planning and adjustments, including a retirement incentive program that has helped avoid layoffs.

The budget also reflects the district's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), a topic emphasized by the student government during their report. They shared insights from a recent leadership conference focused on DEI, underscoring the importance of fostering an inclusive environment in schools. This commitment aligns with the district's broader goals of enhancing student engagement and support, particularly for special education students.

In addition to budgetary matters, the meeting addressed upcoming educational programs, including summer school offerings. While the district plans to continue providing summer educational opportunities, adjustments will be made due to the absence of grant funding, resulting in larger class sizes. The board also discussed the implementation of a Direct Consultant Teacher (DCT) program at Malta Avenue, aimed at enhancing support for special education students.

The meeting concluded with a reminder of the next budget presentation scheduled for April 22, where further details and adjustments will be discussed as the district prepares for the upcoming school year. The board's proactive approach to budget management and commitment to educational excellence reflects a dedication to meeting the needs of the Ballston Spa community.