Frequently Asked Questions: Budget and Voting Logistics

Each year, the annual budget is developed with a view toward the next several school years. We work to identify and address immediate needs, including those for our infrastructure and transportation, and build on our progress to provide an educational experience that enriches each and every student academically and emotionally. Among the areas included in the annual budget are: instructional initiatives, counseling services, special education, food services, faculty and staff salaries, facilities maintenance, retirement system costs, health insurance premiums, debt service, data and technology needs, transportation, infrastructure, utility costs, and health and safety services.

Various components support the district’s operating budget. Approximately 74% of the district's revenue comes from school taxes paid by residents. The next largest contributor is State Aid, which accounts for over 16% (see more on State Aid below). The remaining 10% is a combination of Westchester County Sales Tax, the district’s Fund Balance and reserves, and miscellaneous revenue and interest. 

State Aid is very significant to the district, as it represents over 16% of our budget. This year, we expect to receive a 1% increase (+$52,834) in Foundation Aid and a modest increase in Transportation and Building Aid. 

The district received over $1M in federal relief funding through ARP, CRRSA, and CARES funding. Though those revenue sources are no longer available, the student services and supports initially funded through relief funds have been successfully absorbed into our General Fund budget. These services will continue without interruption for the 2026-2027 school year.

The tax levy is the total amount a school district raises each year through property taxes. The tax rate is the amount of tax paid for each $1,000 of a property's assessed value. The district’s tax levy will not increase as a result of new properties being added to the rolls.

Yes, the tax levy for 2026-27 is within the Allowable Tax Levy and proposed at 2.19%. The proposed 2026-27 budget is $62,762,808, representing a 2.90% increase.

Yes, the district recently allocated the balance of its Repair Reserve monies to fund emergency repairs to the elevator at CHHS and the steam boiler at PVC. The district intends to include a proposition on this year’s ballot to replenish the Reserve, which it has done consistently over the past several years.