In Greater Amsterdam School District, the annual school budget is a reflection of the district’s strategic direction, values, and priorities. The district strives to balance essential and aspirational investments in education while maintaining fiscal responsibility to taxpayers.
Throughout the planning process, the district has carefully reviewed financial projections, assessed programmatic needs, and considered the input of staff, families, and community members. The budget for the 2025-26 school year is designed to support students’ academic growth, well-being, and future success while ensuring operational stability.
At its March 19 Board of Education meeting, the Greater Amsterdam School District approved the following budget priorities:
Investing in Student Learning and Academic Support
Maintain existing staffing and programming with known contractual increases
Increase instructional support with additional aides, monitors, and nurses
Continue alignment of AIS staffing at each elementary school to support student success
Enhance resources and technology access, including expanded Wi-Fi infrastructure
Expand extracurricular opportunities, including Robotics and Esports Labs
Strengthening Student Support Services and Mental Health Resources
Continue partnerships with community agencies, including Catholic Charities, St. Mary’s Mental Health Clinic, and Northern Rivers
Maintain district-funded social workers and behavior intervention specialists
Support and enhance the Family University initiative
Increase student engagement through field trips and enrichment activities
Expanding and Enhancing School Safety and Security
Reinforce district security measures, including the Evolv security screening system
Hire a Security Coordinator to oversee districtwide safety protocols
Improve facility security with updated monitoring systems
Continue to implement best practices for school safety and emergency preparedness
Addressing Facilities and Transportation Needs
Potential expansion of transportation services, including reduced walk zones
Purchase two 38-passenger buses as part of the district’s transportation plan
Invest in custodial and maintenance equipment to ensure well-maintained facilities
Increase funding for facility repairs, maintenance, and utilities
Maintaining Fiscal Responsibility and Long-Term Stability
Maintain a 0% tax levy increase for 2025-26, continuing a decade-long trend
Allocate resources strategically, including the use of a Capital Project Reserve
Plan for financial sustainability despite reductions in building aid and grant funding
Adjust spending based on projected increases in special education services, benefits, and transportation costs
Next Steps in the Budget Process
The district will continue its budget discussions leading up to key milestones:
Wednesday, April 9 – Board of Education vote on the tentative proposed budget
Tuesday, May 13 – Public hearing on the proposed budget
Tuesday, May 20 – Annual Budget Vote and Board of Education Election
The full budget presentation is available on the district website for further review. The Greater Amsterdam School District remains committed to providing high-quality education while ensuring financial sustainability and responsiveness to the community.