What to watch for in Valley Stream District 13’s spending plan

Valley Stream District 13’s proposed budget for the 2025–2026 school year is out — and it packs higher spending, modest tax hikes, and upgrades to classrooms, playgrounds, and security systems. Here’s what you need to know:

1 The Top Line: $69.7 Million

The proposed budget comes in at $69,678,502 — up 3.39 percent from this year. District officials say rising costs and new student-focused investments fuel the jump.

 

2 Tax Watch: 2.12 percent Increase

Homeowners can expect a 2.12 percent tax levy increase, one of the highest in several years. But here’s the key: it’s still within the state-mandated tax cap. That keeps the district eligible for state tax relief and helps buffer residents from even higher hikes down
the line.

Last year’s increase was just 0.75 percent. The difference this time is that the allowable cap itself rose — as the district responds to state aid fluctuations, high transportation cost, unfunded mandates, and external economic conditions.

 

3 Where the Money’s Going

Routine expenses are up
$1.78 million, with the biggest bumps in:

• Salaries and contracts: +$741K
• Transportation: +$384K
• Special education: +$315K
• Insurance and benefits: +$204K

New initiatives total another $503K, including:

• Student services expansion: +$215K
• New assistant principal: +$125K
• Facilities upkeep: +$138K
• More clubs and assemblies: +$26K

Valley Stream District 13 is seeking voter approval to tap into its Capital Reserve Fund—established in May 2018—to finance a series of infrastructure enhancements across its schools. The proposed $1.2 million expenditure aims to improve facilities without burdening taxpayers.​

Key Projects Include:

Wheeler Avenue School Field: Planned upgrades to the athletic field will enhance outdoor spaces for student activities.

Playgrounds at Willow Road and Howell Road Schools: Renovations to existing playgrounds will provide safer and more engaging environments for students.​

Pre-Kindergarten Playground at Howell Road School: Development of a dedicated play area tailored to the needs of younger children.

Districtwide Security Fencing: Installation of security fencing across all schools to bolster campus safety.​Valley Stream 13.

Main Play Structure at Wheeler Avenue School: Replacement of the primary play structure to ensure safety and accessibility.

Upgraded Door Security Systems: Enhancements to door security across the district to improve building access control.

Importantly, funding will come from the Capital Reserve Fund, established in May 2018, ensuring that no additional tax burden is placed on residents.

 

4 The Contingency Plan: $68.3 Million

If voters reject the budget, District 13 will have to adopt a contingency budget — trimming $1.34 million. That means potential cuts to:

• Basic classroom supplies
• After-school clubs
• Public use of school buildings
• Capital improvements and lunch support
• New hires not required by student IEPs

There’s been statewide anxiety over education funding amid uncertainty about future federal aid under the Trump’s administration.

But Superintendent Judith LaRocca says not to worry:

“The district is not losing any state aid. In fact, we’re anticipating an 8.12% increase based on the Governor’s proposal — and possibly more if the final state budget reflects the Senate and Assembly’s plans. We’re in a very healthy financial position."

You can cast your ballot for budget on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at any of its four elementary schools.

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