Polls will be open from 2:30 PM to 9PM in the Middle School Foyer
On Tuesday, May 16, Voorheesville Central School District residents will vote on a proposed $30,078,491 budget for the 2023-24 school year that would increase spending by $1,931,880 (6.86%), resulting in an estimated tax rate increase of less than 1%. Due to new residential and commercial construction and continued growth in taxable values, VCSD has kept the individual tax rate increase lower than the projected tax levy increase. The proposed tax levy increase of 2.50% is below the district’s 4.32% tax levy limit, or cap. As a result, the proposal will need a simple majority vote for approval.
For the first time since the inception of state Foundation Aid, VCSD will be fully funded in 2023- 24 with a 30% increase of $1,291,639. This funding represents a stark difference from 2007 to 2021 when the district saw a total 16% increase in Foundation Aid. The increase coincides with the sunsetting of the COVID-related federal funding stream and has allowed the budget committee to balance the loss of those funds. For example, the district would supplant COVID funding with Foundation Aid to extend the employment of the Academic Intervention Math Specialist and the additional social worker whose positions had been paid for with COVID funds.
The budget proposal would allow VCSD to continue all current programs and services while increasing opportunities for students to obtain high level technical expertise through BOCES Career and Technical Education. The proposal also includes increases in staffing and programming to help support students’ emotional well-being.
The district continues to maximize grants and aid to improve technology infrastructure and to ensure facilities are well-maintained and up-to-date. Grants are essential to keeping our services. The budget committee does not anticipate continued Foundation Aid increases in future years.
Student Achievement
VCSD continues to receive high academic honors and has been recognized as an NYS Reward School. Clayton A. Bouton High School seniors consistently score significantly higher on SAT and ACT exams than the state and national averages. Many high school students take Advanced Placement courses, earn college credits, and most graduate with Advanced Regents or Honors diplomas. This year, five students were recognized by the College Board National Recognition Program.
Social and Emotional Health
VCSD has been an early proponent of supporting students’ social and emotional needs. The district conducted another School Climate Survey and will compare the results to our previous survey to understand our strengths, respond to areas of concern and monitor progress. Safety and Support Services To support students’ academic and social/ emotional needs, VCSD is adding two new positions: a Dean of Student/Guidance Counselor at the elementary level and a Grade 6-12 Equity and Inclusivity Coordinator who will also act as Assistant Principal on the middle/high school campus. VCSD has also implemented the Safe School Helpline, a secure way to report threats of violence, suicide, bullying and illegal activity. Meanwhile, the district continues to reinforce campus safety procedures while adding technology for surveillance and monitoring.
Board of Education
Two seats are available for a four-year term expiring June 30, 2027. Candidates appearing on the ballot: Barbara Owens, Rachel Gilker.
Polling Hours Changed
Polling hours are now 2:30-9 p.m. to comply with election requirements while also allowing for safe student dismissal
Learn more about the proposal on our Budget and Finance page. Click to read required budget summary information for 2023-24