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The Poughkeepsie City School District has proposed a $147.45 million budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year. The plan aims to expand services, including implementing school buses at the elementary level and adding staff, while remaining under the tax cap. Superintendent Dr. Eric Jay Rosser emphasized the budget's focus on sustaining student programs and improving outcomes.
The proposed budget will be presented to voters on May 20 during a budget and board election vote. According to district officials, the budget includes a 5.9% increase over the previous year, with a tax levy increase of just 1.247%, the lowest in Rosser’s tenure.
Key investments in the budget include a $1.86 million expansion of extended learning time (ELT) at the middle school level, funded through grants, and a $1.8 million allocation for the elementary school bus program. The bus program, subject to voter approval, aims to address community concerns about student transportation.
Dr. Rosser stated that the budget process is an opportunity to enhance student experiences and resources, ensuring high-quality education that leads to success in school and beyond. The district plans to finalize the budget draft by April 2, pending state budget approval.
In addition to the budget, one Board of Education seat will be up for election. Trustee Andrew Rieser’s term expires on June 30. Voting will take place on May 20, with absentee, early mail, and military voting options available.