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Residents across Central New York are heading to the polls today (May 20) to vote on school district budget proposals for the 2025-2026 school year. The recently passed state budget includes over $37.5 billion in school aid, marking an increase of $1.7 billion from the previous year. Due to the late approval of the state budget, many districts had to prepare their spending plans without knowing the final state aid figures.
Voting will take place from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. at various locations, depending on where voters reside. According to NYSSBA, voters will also elect members to their school Board of Education, with terms varying from three to five years. The school tax levy, which is the total amount collected from local property owners, determines the level of voter support needed to pass the budget. If the proposed tax levy exceeds the cap, a supermajority of 60% is required for approval.
For specific polling locations and times, residents are advised to check their local district's website. The outcome of these votes will shape the funding and operations of schools in the region for the coming year.