The Greater Amsterdam School District (GASD) has initiated its budget development process for the 2024-25 academic year and is prioritizing expanding student opportunities and hiring more staff to accommodate our students' needs and thrive in the classroom environment.
While the governor’s budget proposal anticipates a slight increase in state aid for school districts statewide, attributed to declining enrollment trends in New York schools over the past decade, GASD is projected to experience a reduction in state aid of $681,023. GASD is proposing a budget of $96,954,810, reflecting a 6.26% increase compared to the 2023-24 school year.
The district’s calculated tax levy limit is 4.85%. The budget proposal carries a tax levy increase of 0.00%, which will require a majority (50% + 1) of voters to authorize the proposal.
The budget development process will span the next three months, with information about Board of Education meetings accessible on the district's website. Specific allocations within the proposed budget include the purchase of one 50-passenger bus and one 66-passenger bus, following the replacement schedule, with a total cost of $302,602 funded from the Bus Reserve. Additionally, GASD plans to acquire a transit van for district courier services at a cost of $58,000. There will also be an increase in Facilities and Maintenance funds to address repairs and related needs.
Finally, the district is proposing to include the transition of ARP (American Rescue Plan) salaries to the General Fund amounting to $500,000, increasing in supplies costs, benefits, and a 5% additional cost in BOCES services plus new services. The $500,000 would pay for the salaries of teaching assistants, an ENL teacher, AIS teachers, and a career exploration and transition specialist. These positions will help address student needs, support English language learners, provide academic intervention services, and assist students in exploring career pathways for a well-rounded educational experience.
Accomplishments and notable items from the 2023-24 school year include the third year of Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) involvement, as well as the acquisition of a Mental Health Grant and expansion of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) resources. The district allocated funds towards such projects as the development of adaptive playgrounds at various buildings, investment in ESports, and the expansion of distance learning offerings. This outlines an increase in Academic Intervention Services (AIS) staffing at each elementary school.
The board is scheduled to vote on a tentative proposed budget on April 17, followed by a public hearing on May 14. The annual budget vote and election will then occur on May 21.
If you would like to view the budget presentation click here.