The Starpoint Central School District is set to present a budget of $71,539,177 for the upcoming school year, reflecting a 5.79% increase over the previous year. This budget will be voted on during the annual election on May 20, 2025, at the high school music room, where residents will also elect three members to the Board of Education for three-year terms.
During the recent Board of Education meeting, Jonathan Andrews outlined the budget's components, noting that the increase is primarily due to two factors: a 4.19% rollover baseline and an additional 1.6% related to a previously approved capital project. The community had previously expressed strong support for this project, which is expected to enhance educational facilities.
Andrews emphasized that if the budget is rejected twice, the district would need to cut approximately $2.4 million to comply with state regulations. He also highlighted the budget's allocation for essential services, including transportation, utilities, and health insurance, as well as staffing for special education.
The tax levy associated with the budget is set at $37,015,960, which includes a 3.38% rollover increase and additional adjustments due to changes in property assessments. Notably, a single business will cover the additional tax burden without impacting local residents, as it will not affect their tax rates.
The district remains committed to being a cost-effective educational provider, spending significantly less per student compared to both the state average and similar districts in the region. As the community prepares for the upcoming vote, the Board encourages residents to consider the budget's long-term benefits for students and the overall educational environment.