Madison County Schools officials presented the first public hearing on the fiscal-year 2026 budget at the Sept. 5 meeting, outlining revenue sources, expense trends and financial priorities tied to enrollment growth.

The district described its fund structure (general, special revenue, debt service, capital projects and fiduciary funds) and noted it operates 30 schools. Presenters said most revenue comes from state and local sources, with federal programs and other funds making up the balance. Payroll and benefits are the largest expense, and the district projects a 3.5% increase in operating expenses year over year largely from inflation and higher utility costs.

Officials said instruction and instructional support account for more than 83% of payroll spending, and that expense-category shares remain relatively flat despite overall increases. On debt, the presenter said the district has bonds maturing in the coming years and is exploring refinancing options that could reduce rates (one bond refinance could lower interest by about one percentage point on a large instrument, the presenter said).

Administrators said the FY26 budget aims to support instructional quality, facility upgrades and technology to keep pace with enrollment; they invited public feedback and noted a second hearing scheduled for Sept. 11.