Budget Brochure: Message from the Superintendent.pdf
Dear Hicksville School Community,
At the Board of Education meeting held on April 23, the Board unanimously adopted the proposed budget for the 2025-26 school year. I am writing to provide you with an overview of the proposed spending plan, as we remain committed to transparency so our community is fully informed in advance of the budget vote on Tuesday, May 20.
For the second consecutive year, the district is facing a deficit of over $6 million. Through a combination of cost-cutting measures, operational efficiencies, resource reallocation, and the strategic use of grants and reserve funds, approximately $5 million of the shortfall has been addressed. However, a funding gap of $1.7 million remains for the upcoming school year.
Under the tax cap, the allowable tax levy increase is 3.35%, and requires $1.7 million in program cuts, including athletics, fine and performing arts, extracurricular clubs, the grades 3-4 RISE program, field trips, Advanced Placement courses and the Gregory Museum.
To bridge this gap and maintain these programs, the Board adopted a budget that exceeds the district’s allowable tax levy cap. However, after applying $2.64 million from the Reserve for Debt Service, the Board’s proposed tax levy increase is 2.54%. Under the proposed budget, the anticipated tax levy is lower than a compliant tax cap despite requiring supermajority approval.
This decision is being made to ensure the continuation of vital services and programs for students while also minimizing the tax burden on residents. While the proposed budget reflects a unique planning approach, it allows us to maximize revenue, preserve programs and services for our students, and minimize the tax impact on residents.
To pass the proposed budget, the district requires approval from a supermajority of voters, with at least 60% approval necessary. The Board of Education will host a public budget hearing on Wednesday, May 7, at 7:30 p.m. in the Board Room at the district’s administrative offices, located at 200 Division Ave., Hicksville, NY. Please attend to learn more about the proposed budget and ask any questions you may have.
Finally, please remember to vote on Tuesday, May 20. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Voting locations include Burns Avenue School, Dutch Lane School, East Street School, Fork Lane School, Lee Avenue School, Old Country Road School and Woodland School.
More information on the proposed budget can be found on the district’s website, www.hicksvillepublicschools.org. Additional information will also be sent to all residents in the coming weeks.
Thank you for your continued involvement and attention to this important vote.
Sincerely,
Dr. Theodore Fulton
Superintendent of Schools
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