Syosset School District presents $164M budget proposal for 2025-2026 school year

The Syosset School District is set to enhance educational offerings and maintain fiscal responsibility with the proposed budget for the 2025-2026 school year, which was presented during the recent budget hearing. The budget supports approximately 7,200 students across ten schools and prioritizes the preservation of academic programs, co-curricular activities, and student well-being.

Key highlights of the budget include the addition of a social worker in every school and ongoing partnerships with health organizations to support students' social and emotional needs. Despite facing challenges such as rising health insurance costs and inflation, the district has crafted a budget that proposes a tax levy increase of only 2.77%, well below the state-mandated cap of 2.8%. This marks a cumulative savings of over $11 million under the tax cap since its implementation.

The budget also allocates funds for essential facility improvements, including renovations to tennis courts and upgrades to school auditoriums. Additionally, it emphasizes professional development for teachers, particularly in integrating artificial intelligence into instructional design, and supports various new educational programs aimed at enhancing literacy and STEM education.

Transportation costs have been a significant concern, prompting the district to invest in three new buses to manage expenses more effectively. This strategic move is expected to yield savings over time, with state aid covering a portion of the costs.

The budget details will be shared with the community through newsletters and online resources, ensuring transparency as the district prepares for the upcoming budget vote on May 20. The proposed budget reflects a commitment to educational excellence while navigating financial challenges, positioning the Syosset School District for continued success in the coming year.