While some districts struggle to maintain the basics, Saratoga Springs city schools are proposing a bold budget that “advances educational programming.”
The district’s $116.4 million plan for 2014-2015 hikes spending by $3.8 million – 3.4 percent – over the current year’s budget, and would raise the tax levy by a projected 2.24 percent. While the budget proposes eliminating an elementary school teaching position and two high school bathroom monitors, it also calls for creating several new staff positions and programs. Funded in the plan are the hiring of an information technology support specialist, evening security guards, a math coach, a high school job coach and a part-time elementary gym teacher. The budget also includes money for teacher training initiatives, curriculum writing projects and more.
“We feel fortunate to have developed a budget that keeps the levy within the tax cap formula, preserves programs and allows us to continue to work toward achieving our vision on behalf of students, parents, staff and community,” Superintendent Michael Piccirillo said.
The budget relies on $9.5 million in reserve funds. It would increase the tax rate for a property owner in Saratoga Springs to an estimated $15.01 per $1,000 assessed valuation from $14.68, according to the district.
Over the last six years, the school district reduced staff by 95.5 positions, all through retirements and resignations. The cuts were a consequence of cost-cutting measures initiated at the state level, school officials say. Enrollment has declined by about 300 students the last five years. About 6,550 students now attend city schools.
The district says its fiscal situation continues to be challenging, “but the proposed budget was designed with a commitment to preserve the outstanding quality of educational programs.” Voters on May 20 will also decide two propositions and three seats on the Board of Education.
One proposition seeks $6.4 million to make upgrades and alterations to district buildings, security systems and wireless networks. The improvements include roof repairs at Dorothy Nolan and Lake Avenue elementary schools; a generator at Greenfield Elementary School; conversion of the heating systems at Caroline Street and Division Street elementary schools; replacement of the high school track and resurfacing the tennis courts; and more. The local share of project is about $2 million and financed through an existing fund.
A separate measure would authorize the district to spend an estimated $965,155 on five 66-passenger school buses, two 30-passenger buses, two 30-passenger buses with wheelchair lifts and two 20-passenger buses. State aid would pay for 41 percent of the cost.
Board vice president Charles Locke, incumbent Mia Pfitzer and challengers Brian Farr and Stephen Verral are running for three available seats on the school board. Francis Palumbo is not seeking reelection.