The Penfield Central School District held a meeting on May 20, 2025, to discuss the proposed budget for the 2025-26 school year, which totals $128 million. Key discussions focused on the budget's structure, funding sources, and its implications for the community.

The proposed budget reflects a significant increase in spending, driven primarily by the addition of staff and programming enhancements. The district's per-student spending stands at $18,306, notably lower than the county average of $22,500 and the statewide average of approximately $27,000. This indicates a commitment to maintaining efficiency while enhancing educational offerings.

The budget is supported by two main revenue sources: a real property tax levy, which accounts for 57% of the revenue, and New York State Education Aid, contributing 36%. The real property levy has decreased as a percentage of the budget compared to previous years, thanks to the phased implementation of the Foundation Aid formula, which has increased state aid.

The proposed tax levy for the upcoming year is set at $72.9 million, representing a 3.33% increase. This amount is below the maximum allowable levy of $73.76 million, which would require only a simple majority for approval. If the district were to exceed this cap by more than $3.2 million, a supermajority would be necessary.

The budget also includes a margin of safety to address potential financial challenges, ensuring that the district can adapt to unforeseen circumstances, such as economic fluctuations or emergencies. The administration expressed confidence in the budget's stability, emphasizing its ability to support essential programs and services for students.

As the district prepares to present this budget to voters, the administration reassured the community of its commitment to providing quality education while managing resources effectively. The upcoming vote will be crucial in determining the future of educational funding in Penfield.