2026 Annual Budget Presentation

The Lancaster Central School District held its 2026 Annual Budget Presentation on May 13, 2026, detailing the proposed $163.4 million budget for the upcoming school year. The budget reflects a 15.73% increase overall, primarily due to a one-time $16 million capital reserve transfer related to ongoing construction projects, with an adjusted 4.39% increase excluding this transfer. The budget maintains all current instructional programs, staffing levels, and class sizes while adding positions to support growing enrollment and special education needs. Key budget components include administrative costs (8%), program costs (67%), and capital expenses (25%), with the program component covering instruction, special education, technology, and transportation. The district also proposed a $926,000 expenditure for replacement fuel-powered school buses, noting a state mandate to transition to electric vehicles starting in 2027. The tax levy increase is set at 2.97%, below the state tax cap, and the district emphasized its commitment to maintaining educational quality and student opportunities. Voters will also consider board member elections and a bus replacement proposition during the budget vote.