BPS - Special Board Meeting 5/12/2026

The Buffalo Public Schools Special Board Meeting on May 12, 2026, focused primarily on the presentation and discussion of the district's proposed $1.4 billion budget for the 2026-2027 school year. Superintendent Pascal Minga and CFO Jim Barnes detailed the budget challenges, including a projected $66 million deficit, which is an improvement from the previous year's $78 million deficit. Key procurement-related topics included the elimination of 51 central office positions to reduce costs, the addition of 21 special education classrooms and 58 special education staff funded internally, and capital projects totaling nearly $33 million expected to be completed by September 2026. The budget also accounted for increases in charter school tuition costs, transportation expenses, and employee compensation, with contingency funds included for unsettled contracts. Board members engaged in detailed questions about specific budget line items such as contract services, staffing changes, and program funding, including concerns about cuts to arts and student support services. The board was informed that final state aid numbers were pending, and approval of the budget was anticipated the following week. The meeting underscored the district's efforts to balance fiscal responsibility with educational needs amid enrollment fluctuations and ongoing financial pressures.