Budget hearing set for May 6 at Saddlewood Elementary

The South Colonie Board of Education has adopted a proposed $139.55 million budget for the 2025–26 school year—an 8.36% increase over the current year. The plan maintains all current programs, expands student support services, and reflects investments aligned with the voter-approved Next Generation Capital Project.

Fiscally Responsible, Student-Focused Planning

The proposed budget includes a 3.49% tax levy increase, which remains below the state’s allowable limit. This includes the first year of a phased-in, 1% tax levy impact to support upgrades from the 2022 approved capital project. The plan also addresses rising costs associated with health insurance, salaries, inflation, and tariffs, while maintaining a strong commitment to modernizing learning spaces.

“The 2025-26 budget reflects a fiscally responsible, student-focused approach—maintaining all existing programs while enhancing critical supports such as mental health services, early intervention, and expanded career pathways,” said Dr. David Perry, Superintendent of Schools.

Key Investments and Enhancements

Academic & Student Support

• 0.5 FTE school psychologist to support English Language Learners (ELLs)
• Universal Pre-K (UPK) interventionist to boost early academic support
• Two new elementary teachers at Lisha Kill to support enrollment and reduce class sizes
• Two middle school interventionists (budget-neutral) for academic support
• 0.5 FTE high school business teacher to expand college and career pathway opportunities
• Grades 7–12 science supervisor to lead curriculum and instructional development
• Funding for new coaching and advisor positions to enhance extracurricular offerings

Districtwide Communication

• Creation of a full-time communications role (budget-neutral) to improve outreach by combining a part-time position with current BOCES services

Operations & Facilities

• Budget-neutral equipment purchases for transportation and facilities
• Continued furniture replacements and capital upgrades aligned with the Next Generation Capital Project

Bus Proposition on May 20 Ballot

Voters will also decide on a separate proposition to authorize the purchase of 10 replacement buses, including a mix of full-size, mid-size, wheelchair-accessible, and small passenger vehicles. The plan includes a 24-passenger electric bus, with no cost to taxpayers after state aid is applied.

• Cost not to exceed $1.83 million
• Up to 63.5% funded through state aid
• Part of the district’s ongoing fleet replacement plan to enhance safety and reduce maintenance costs

Board of Education Election

One seat on the Board of Education is up for election. Brian Casey, current board member, is running unopposed for re-election to a five-year term ending June 30, 2030.

Public Budget Hearing: May 6

• Saddlewood Elementary
• 6:30 p.m.
• Livestream available to the community on the district’s YouTube channel

Budget Vote

• Tuesday, May 20
• 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
• Polling Locations at Sand Creek and Lisha Kill Middle Schools
• Find your polling place

More Information

• Full Budget Presentation
• Budget Q&A
• Board Candidate Bio