Our district has worked hard to balance quality education with financial responsibility in this proposed budget. This budget season, BKW is facing an especially difficult financial landscape and is strategically working to maintain services while dealing with rising expenses and declining revenue. In addition, state and federal funding remains unpredictable, and schools continually seek direction to understand the formula changes that determine our federal and state aid support.
In the past three years, we have relied heavily on our reserves to fill the budget gap so that we were able to maintain services and programs while mitigating those costs for our taxpayers. Over the past few years, the district’s revenues, which are a combination of aid and local property tax, totaled approximately $23,000,000, white district expenses totaled over $25,000,000. Due to this, since 2022, the district has substantial fund balance and nearly all of its reserves to help balance the budget.
The process of relying heavily on our reserve funds over the years has left us with significantly depleted balances. Moving forward, this cannot be sustained, and we are putting into place financial plans to replenish those funds, over time, and realign how we prepare our district to adjust and thrive in this new fiscal environment.
Where do we go from here?
For the 2025–2026 school year, we are proposing a budget of $24,737,328, which reflects a $1.05 million reduction from the current year’s budget. Despite this decrease, we prioritize student learning and well-being while working toward a sustainable financial future.
This year’s proposed budget includes the following:
- A 3.3% tax levy increase, which remains within or equal to the state-mandated tax cap.
- Use of $1.2 million in fund balance and $100,000 in reserves. Since 2022, the district has used over $2.7 million dollars in reserves to fill budget gaps.
- A proposition for the purchase of three 72 passenger diesel buses. As of today, New York State has mandated that schools may not purchase diesel buses after 2027.
Additions for 2025–2026
Even with budget reductions, we are including the following for 2025-26:
- Restoration of $7,000 for graduation expenses.
- Continued support for a School Resource Officer (SRO) through matching grant funds.
- Return of field trips (partially restored at $10,000).
- A replacement maintenance vehicle to ensure safety during winter.
- A potential part-time school social worker, possibly shared with a neighboring district through regionalization efforts.
- Two new in-district special education programs to support students closer to home, improve access, and build inclusive environments for all learners.
Staffing Adjustments
Due to attrition and restructuring, the proposed budget includes reductions in staff positions. These changes have been carefully considered to minimize disruptions and protect core academic programs.
Our commitment
This budget reflects our district’s continued focus on:
- Responsible, transparent financial planning
- Rebuilding reserves for long-term stability
- Providing a high-quality education for every student
- Supporting our staff with the resources they need in today’s classroom
We believe education is one of the most important investments a community can make. Your continued partnership and engagement are essential as we navigate these challenges together. You can view the recent budget presentation here.
You can continue to follow the district’s budget conversation here.