On May 20, Valley Central School District (VCSD) voters approved the district’s 2025-26 budget proposal of $133,800,000, 693 votes for to 329 against, as well as approved an $11,100,000 proposition to renovate and improve school district facilities 693 votes for to 327 against. Additionally, three board members were elected to serve a three-year term beginning July 1. At this time these are unofficial results.
The $133,800,000 budget includes a spending increase of $4,500,000, or 3.48%, over the current school year’s budget, with a tax levy increase of 2.49% compared to the current year. The proposed school budget aligns with the District’s Strategic Plan by introducing a new literacy program that aligns with the science of reading, expanding staff development opportunities, increasing social-emotional supports and services for students, and updating its website to strengthen communication.
The $11,100,000 proposition will be used to replace windows at the Alternative Learning Center in Maybrook, renovate Montgomery Elementary School with window replacements and a new gymnasium floor, replace tile flooring throughout East Coldenham Elementary School, and replace the water holding tank and install air conditioning in the cafeteria at the middle school. These capital project improvements will have no additional tax impact on residents as they will be funded by a combination of state building aid and the District’s fund balance.
The candidates elected to three-year terms on the board of education were: Robert Oakes, with 779 votes, Jane Samuelson, with 716 votes, and Diana Revoir with 708 votes.
“On behalf of the board of education, thank you to the VCSD voters for their continued support and entrusting us with the care and education of our students,” said Superintendent Evette Avila.