Budget Hearing - May 5, 2026

The West Islip Union Free School District held a budget hearing on May 5, 2026, to present and discuss the proposed school budget for the upcoming year. The superintendent and district officials outlined the challenges of rising costs amid limited revenue growth, highlighting a budget increase of 3.4 million dollars (2.38%) to a total of approximately 144.8 million dollars. Key procurement-related items included a capital reserve proposition authorizing up to 1.9 million dollars for security upgrades such as magnetic door holders, electronic locks, card access readers, and fire alarm replacements across several school buildings. The tax levy was set at 98.7 million dollars, a 2.5% increase, remaining within the state tax cap. The district also discussed new educational programs and staffing adjustments but focused primarily on budget allocations and capital improvement projects. The community was informed about voting on two board seats and the capital reserve proposition scheduled for May 19, 2026.