Board of Education Meeting - 03/23/2026

The Valley Central School District Board of Education held a meeting on March 23, 2026, where they discussed various topics including commendations for student achievements, updates on school activities, and reports from district administrators. A significant portion of the meeting focused on the district's budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, highlighting a proposed $139.7 million budget with a 2.98% tax levy increase, which is below the state tax cap. Key budget drivers included transportation contract increases, special education costs, health insurance, and technology expenses such as Chromebook replacements. The board also reviewed and passed resolutions related to a capital project for school facility renovations and the establishment of a new capital reserve fund for 2026. Additionally, the board approved a multi-year transportation contract with First Student valued at approximately $49.8 million over five years, a BOCES cooperative purchasing resolution, and an intermunicipal agreement with the Town of Hamptonburg. Community concerns were raised about poor athletic field conditions, prompting the board to commit to addressing safety issues by engaging services to improve the fields. The meeting concluded with a move to executive session to discuss personnel matters without further action.