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District says proposed UPK boost could cover program shortfall but state budget uncertainty complicates planning
Summary
Superintendent told the board that the governor's proposal to raise universal prekindergarten (UPK) funding to about $10,000 per student would largely restore the district's prior general‑fund contribution to UPK, but unknowns in the state budget and rising costs leave the 2026–27 budget unsettled.
East Aurora Union Free School District Superintendent Mr. Russ told the board on March 4 that the governor’s proposed increase in universal prekindergarten funding could significantly reduce the district’s out‑of‑pocket cost for UPK next year.
“the UPK grant…going from 485,000 to up to $840,000. So, it's about $10,000 per student,” Mr. Russ said, describing the governor’s proposal and how it would affect the district’s finances. He added the district has been using about $140,000 from the general fund to cover the program and that the proposed increase could restore that amount.
Why it matters: the district’s budget work hinges on state aid projections that are not final. Mr. Russ emphasized that the state budget had not yet been adopted and warned that staff must prepare scenarios if the Legislature delays action. Board members and administrators highlighted two countervailing pressures: a rising combined wealth ratio that reduces some aid categories, and increases in operating costs the district expects to face next year.
Budget specifics provided at the public workshop included: foundation, transportation and building aid changes; a projected $437,000 increase in basic aid tied in part to building aid; and a forecasted $107,000 rise in electricity costs. The presentation also noted pension rate shifts—state teacher retirement (TRS) trending downward and employee retirement system (ERS) trending upward—while salaries are expected to increase, making exact dollar impacts contingent on final salary figures.
Board members pressed for follow‑up details. At least one member asked whether the 90 currently registered UPK students could be accommodated in five classes of 18 and whether a sixth class could be added if a community partner provides additional slots. Mr. Russ confirmed that a sixth class could be possible if the community partner’s proposal and enrollment grow.
The district plans further public workshops (March 18 and April 1) and a community hearing on May 6 as part of the 2026–27 budget schedule. Final appropriation figures remain pending state action and administrative salary/fringe calculations.
Next steps: staff will refine appropriation line items (salaries, fringe, equipment reductions already targeted) and return to the board with updated options when more state information and salary estimates are available.
