South Orangetown board approves $116.69 million 2026–27 budget with 1.85% levy

The South Orangetown Central School District Board of Education voted to adopt a proposed 2026–2027 school budget of $116,688,270 and will present it to district voters, the board decided at its meeting.

Superintendent Dr. Koolot said the budget, discussed at prior workshops, arrives with a proposed tax levy increase of 1.85% and a “significant reduction in use of fund balance” compared with the prior year. The spending plan continues funding for small class sizes, kindergarten teaching assistants, C-TECH/BOCES seats, expanded electives and extracurricular activities, and adds a second UPK class at William O. Schaefer.

Board members moved and seconded the resolution to approve the proposed amount; the motion passed by voice vote with one abstention recorded. The motion to present the budget was made by Rob (mover) and seconded by Tracy (second), according to the transcript exchange at the meeting.

The superintendent said the budget reflects a multi-month collaborative process with the board and district staff and noted the district’s priorities for classroom experience and programming. The board scheduled a special meeting on April 21 for a separate vote on the Rockland BOCES budget; the superintendent urged participation because the district is part of BOCES.

Next steps: Per the board’s resolution, the $116,688,270 budget will appear on the ballot presented to voters for final approval under the district’s normal voting procedures.