Spring Grove Area SD board approves 2026–27 budget with $691,972 shortfall, authorizes device disposal and cybersecurity agreement

The Spring Grove Area School District board approved a package of business and finance items that included the 2026–27 general fund budget, acceptance of accounts payable, technology actions and student assistance contracts.

Jessica, speaking for the budget and finance office, presented the proposed general fund budget for fiscal year 2026–27 with total revenues of $89.9 million and total expenditures of $90.6 million, leaving a projected shortfall of $691,972 to be funded from the district's general fund unreserved balance. The administration recommended maintaining the real estate millage rate at 25.4071 mills (no increase) and continuing an earned income tax and a real estate transfer tax at half a percent under Act 511. The nutrition services fund for 2026–27 was presented with total revenues of about $3.086 million and expenditures of about $3.359 million; the administration recommended continuing the free breakfast program and no increase in lunch pricing.

The board also approved a consent list that included routine items: accounts payable as presented, appointment of school depositories for July 1, 2026–June 30, 2027, contracting with a substitute teacher service, the resale/disposal of 330 outdated Apple devices and renewal of an Apple lease for a MacBook refresh. The administration described the proposed disposal as removal of obsolete hardware listed for resale or disposal.

Based on matters discussed in executive session, the administration added an agreement with a private vendor to purchase a cybersecurity system "at no additional cost to the district." Administration representatives said the change would be a cost-neutral swap accomplished with savings from next year's budget. The board opened the added item for public comment (none offered) and then approved the full package by roll-call vote; the recorded roll call showed affirmative votes from the listed members.

Student assistance program agreements to continue partnering with True North Wellness Services for mental-health and drug-and-alcohol supports were also approved. The minutes show the treasurer's report for April 30, 2026, presented on the same agenda: general fund $23.4 million, nutrition services $1.4 million, capital reserve $1.5 million and bond fund about $7.8 million, with invoices presented for approval of roughly $137,000.

The budget vote approved the administration's financial plan for 2026–27 but did not change the tax millage rate. The administration said it would fund the projected shortfall from the unreserved fund balance.