What to watch for in the 2025 Valley Stream District 24 budget

Valley Stream District 24 is planning a nearly $2 million increase in spending next school year — with a proposed $41.2 million budget that expands student services and security while keeping tax increases within state guidelines. On May 20, voters will weigh in not just on the core budget but also on capital upgrades and high school district initiatives that could shape the educational landscape across Valley Stream.

1. The Top Line: $41.2 Million.

District 24’s proposed budget for the 2025–2026 school year totals $41,242,480, a 4.99 percent increase over last year’s $39.28 million. Officials say the rise reflects anticipated costs across instruction, operations, and student services all while staying within the New York State tax levy cap.

 

2. Tax Watch: 2.18% Levy Increase.

The proposed 2.18% tax levy increase is described as modest and compliant with state-imposed limits. School officials argue it strikes a balance between financial responsibility and meeting student needs. The district’s adherence to the cap means homeowners remain eligible for state property tax relief.

 

3. What’s Driving the Budget Hike?

Several key initiatives are fueling the $1.96 million bump:

Mental health support: The budget adds a new psychologist and social worker, addressing growing needs among students.

Instructional consistency: Each school building will get its own full-time substitute teacher, replacing the current rotating model.

Enhanced security: One additional full-time security guard is being added to strengthen campus coverage.

Summer learning: Expanded offerings in math and literacy aim to close academic gaps and prepare students for the fall.

 

4.Proposition 2: $850K for School Upgrades.

Voters will also decide on a separate $850,000 capital proposition funded through the district’s 2018 and 2024 Capital Reserve Funds — meaning no new taxes for residents.

Planned upgrades include:

• Districtwide door access and alarm system improvements
• Roof replacements and repairs
• Three classroom renovations across the district
• All projects include labor, materials, and incidental costs.

 

5. Central High School District Propositions: Big Ticket Items

District 24 residents will also vote on three proposals from the Valley Stream Central High School District, which educates older students from elementary districts.

• Proposition 3: $166.8 million budget for 2025–2026 covering salaries, academic programs, and operations
• Proposition 4: $4.5 million in capital projects, including:
• Streambank restoration at Valley Stream South
• Renovation of district offices and classrooms
• Proposition 5: $6.4 million property purchase at 10 Fifth Street using capital reserves and unassigned funds to support future district expansion

Have an opinion on this article? Send an email to jlasso@liherald.com.