The Valley Central School Board unanimously passed the proposed 2024-25 budget at its April 15 meeting. The budget calls for spending in the amount of $129 million, with a proposed tax levy increase of 2.99%, which is under the tax cap of 5.66%.

Brad Conklin, School Business Official, discussed the three components of the budget in a PowerPoint presentation. The program component, which includes a number of items, including instruction, special education and BOCES, represents 81% of the budget at $105 million; the capital component is $13 million (10%); and the administrative component is $11 million (9%).

The tax levy will pay for 53% of the budget, with state aid covering 42% and the remaining 5% coming from other sources, including fund balance.

The budget maintains positions for social and emotional support. They include a student emotional counselor, a social/emotional specialist, a physical education/mental health program, a director of safety and security, and behavioral intervention specialists for the middle schools and high school.

The budget calls for a new sport - women’s wrestling. Board president Joseph Bond said he is happy with the inclusion of the new sport, calling it a great addition.

Conklin urged residents to go to the district website, to read the budget booklet and to reach out to him for budget information rather than rely on Facebook discussions.

The budget vote will take place May 21 at the high school. Voters will also elect two board members for three-year terms.

The board’s next meeting will be May 13 and it will include a budget hearing.