SOUTH COUNTRY CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD MEETING 05/26/2026 PART 1

The South Country Central School District Board held a meeting on May 26, 2026, primarily focused on addressing the recent budget vote failure and outlining the district's fiscal challenges and recovery plans. The board discussed the need to reduce the budget by approximately $5.67 million to meet the property tax cap of 5.52%, with an additional $4 million in cuts required if the district moves to a contingent budget. Significant program reductions were proposed, including elimination of late buses, cuts to co-curricular activities, athletics, AP courses, and reductions in staffing such as elementary math interventionists and counselors. The board emphasized the importance of fiscal oversight, mandated by special legislation, including quarterly financial reporting for up to 30 years. Public participation featured numerous community members expressing concerns about program cuts, transparency, communication, and the impact on students and staff. The board approved a resolution to proceed with a revised budget of approximately $144.8 million to be presented for a revote on June 16, 2026, with a budget hearing scheduled for June 9. The meeting concluded with plans to continue discussions and work toward rebuilding trust and financial stability in the district.