Fairport School District outlines budget increases amid healthcare cost challenges

The Fairport Central School District (FCSD) Board of Education workshop on April 8, 2025, highlighted significant budgetary challenges and strategic planning for the upcoming school year. Superintendent Provanzano and his team presented a detailed overview of the district's physical plant, which encompasses over 300 acres and 12 buildings, alongside the need for ongoing updates to technology infrastructure, including 900 wireless access points and thousands of student and staff Chromebooks.

A key focus of the meeting was the district's budget, which is projected to increase by 3.71% to nearly $165.8 million. This rise is largely driven by a $3.5 million spike in health insurance costs, reflecting broader trends affecting many districts. Superintendent Provanzano emphasized the importance of balancing expenditures with revenues, noting that property taxes would see a modest increase of 2.998%, aligning closely with inflation rates.

The discussion also touched on transportation costs, which are expected to decrease due to successful recruitment efforts for in-house staff, leading to lower contractual expenses. The board expressed optimism about the district's ability to manage these financial pressures while maintaining the quality of education and services for students.

In a positive note, the meeting celebrated the success of the district's SPARK program, which has drawn visitors from across the region, reinforcing its status as a community highlight. The board agreed to make the SPARK night an annual event, recognizing its value in fostering community engagement and pride.

As the district navigates these financial complexities, the use of reserves was discussed as a potential strategy to mitigate shortfalls, particularly in light of the anticipated challenges in the 2025-2026 school year. The board remains committed to transparency and proactive planning, ensuring that the educational experience for students remains a top priority amidst fiscal constraints.