Scranton School Board approves proposed 2026 budget and starts 30-day adoption clock

The Scranton School District board on Nov. 12 voted to approve a proposed version of the final 2026 budget, triggering the 30-day public review period required by law.

Pat Laffey, the district’s finance presenter, outlined the proposal as roughly $241,400,000 in both revenue and expenditures, including a $5,000,000 budgetary reserve and approximately $236 million in projected actual expenses. Laffey said the administration incorporated early indications from the recently passed state budget that could increase Scranton’s state subsidy and that the proposed millage would be set at a revenue-neutral rate to offset reassessment changes.

"There is no tax increase with this budget," Laffey said, explaining the district would adjust millage to remain revenue neutral as assessed values are certified. He told the board the county reassessment produced non-certified assessed values of about $6.2 billion and that certification (expected Nov. 15) could prompt slight millage recalculations.

The presentation included estimates for state and federal funding changes the administration is assuming in its forecasting: modest increases in Basic Education Funding and special-education allocations, and an assumed reduction in certain federal formula grants. Laffey warned the district is conservatively budgeting for a 20% reduction in Title I funds and the potential elimination of Titles II–IV in future cycles, which could reduce federal support by roughly $1.375 million in 2026 under current assumptions.

The budget package also reflects personnel and operating cost changes: contractual salary and benefit steps tied to collective-bargaining agreements, restoration of some programs, a conversion of contracted school-safety officers to district staff, a one-time "27-pay" payroll anomaly, and projected health-care increases. The administration said 16–17 additional positions for autistic-support services are included to meet enrollment trends.

Board members praised central administration and the district’s state delegation for averting a shortfall, and asked the administration to explore targeted senior tax-rebate ideas before final adoption. The board voted by roll call to approve the proposed budget and begin the 30-day period leading to final adoption.

Next steps: the administration will continue to refine line items as state subsidy figures are finalized and will publish the proposed budget on the district website and at the Albright Memorial Library for public inspection.