Superintendent Dr. Conrad presented the district’s proposed final budget for the 2025–26 school year at the May 8 meeting, saying the plan preserves current programs while estimating a net $4.5 million increase in expenditures and recommending a 2% local property tax increase.

Under the proposal, projected revenue for 2025–26 totals about $116.1 million: $57.8 million in local revenue, $56.7 million from state sources and roughly $1.5 million from federal grants. The administration is budgeting a district expenditure plan in which roughly 58% of spending is salaries and benefits. Dr. Conrad said the district anticipates modest increases in state basic education and special education funding but still faces rising transportation, utilities and special education costs.

On taxes, Dr. Conrad presented the financial effect of a 2% levy increase on the average assessed property. Using the county’s average assessed value of $143,108, the recommended 2% increase would raise the annual school tax bill by about $78 (from the prior year), or roughly $6.50 per month. At the same time the state homestead/farmstead allocation increased; the superintendent said qualifying homestead property owners (about 7,654 households in the district) will receive an assessment reduction of $36,020 that translates to a tax savings of about $932 per qualifying account under the state homestead formula.

Dr. Conrad also reviewed the district’s fund‑balance picture. The district’s total fund balance was presented at approximately $119 million at 4/30/2025; that number is expected to decline to about $92 million in 2025–26 as bond proceeds are used for the high‑school renovation project. He said the district will continue to transfer general funds into the capital reserve to cover future district facility needs without additional borrowing.

Staffing changes in the proposed budget are limited: one additional intervention teacher (intermediate) and one 12‑month security position to support the high‑school renovation project and reduce overtime costs. The administration emphasized the budget preserves classroom supplies, after‑school tutoring and transportation services.

Next steps: Dr. Conrad said the budget was scheduled for the May 22 board agenda as the proposed final budget, with a public inspection period beginning May 23; the board will hold a formal adoption vote June 23. The board asked staff to continue monitoring contract negotiations and federal funding conditions and to return with any necessary adjustments before final adoption.