2026 – 2027 Budget and Bus Vote/Board Seat Election
May 19, 2026 – Noon – 9:00 pm School Auditorium Atrium
Budget Publications
2026 – 2027 SSCS Annual School Budget
Education Matters: 2026-27 Budget Edition
Superintendent’s Budget Message
Dear Sharon Springs Community,
In our latest edition of Education Matters (mailed home and downloadable above) you will find a detailed summary of the proposed 2026–2027 school budget as well as important information about our upcoming school board election. The Annual Budget, Bus Vote and Board of Education Election will take place on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, from 12:00 noon to 9:00 p.m. in the Audtorium Atrium.
As we present next year’s budget, it is important to share the broader context in which it was developed. Like many districts across rural New York, Sharon Springs Central School is facing continued challenges due to insufficient state funding. While costs for staffing, programs, and essential services continue to rise, state aid has not kept pace with the unique needs of small, rural districts. This reality requires us to be especially thoughtful, strategic, and disciplined in how we allocate our resources.
Despite these challenges, we remain steadfast in our commitment to fiscal responsibility and educational excellence. If approved by voters, the district’s total budget for the 2026-2027 school year will be $11,597,291, representing a tax levy increase of 2.4%. Our goal is to ensure that every dollar is used in a way that maximizes student opportunity while being mindful of the financial impact on our community.
Also the ballot is a Board of Education seat. We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Christine Cornwell for her decade of dedicated, voluntary service as a member of the Board of Education. Throughout her tenure, Christine consistently demonstrated thoughtful leadership, principled decision-making, and an unwavering commitment to doing what is best for students. Her integrity, steady presence, and willingness to engage in the complex work of governance have left a lasting positive impact on our district. We are sincerely appreciative of her service and the legacy she leaves behind.
Running to fill this role on the Board of Education are Mr. Patrick Yacobucci and Mr. Scott Cornwell; both respected members of our school community. Each brings a strong commitment to supporting students and a genuine appreciation for the values that define Sharon Springs. They are eager for the opportunity to serve and contribute to the continued success of our district as well as providing the governance our district needs to improve and develop.
Budget Priorities and Educational Programs
True to our mission, this proposed budget prioritizes a strong and balanced educational program that reflects the values of our school community. It continues our investment in:
- Strong core academics and literacy at every level;
- Enriching, balanced electives and advanced coursework;
- Field trips, clubs, and extracurricular opportunities that build character and connection;
- Student leadership programs such as FBLA and FFA;
- A comprehensive athletics program that promotes teamwork, sportsmanship, and wellness.
We also remain committed to providing students with future readiness opportunities, including BOCES programming and partnerships that allow students to earn college credit while still in high school.
Collaboration and Stewardship
In the face of financial constraints, we continue to explore ways to maximize efficiency through collaboration. These efforts include:
- Shared services with neighboring districts;
- Regional professional development opportunities;
- Partnerships for athletics and summer programming;
- Cooperative purchasing and cost-saving measures.
These strategies allow us to preserve the programs that matter most while maintaining responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources.
Community Appreciation and Looking Ahead
Sharon Springs is a small school with a big heart, and that strength comes directly from this community. Your continued support allows us to provide a personalized, caring educational experience where every student is known, valued, and supported.
While the financial landscape presents challenges, it does not change our commitment. The district remains steadfast in a student-centered vision; however, due to ongoing state aid shortfalls, labor market pressures, and the unique realities of operating in a rural region, we are being required to thoughtfully adapt through staffing reductions and the restructuring of certain departments. These decisions are not made lightly, but with careful consideration of how to preserve the quality of our programs and the relationships that define our school.
Together, we will continue to provide opportunities that help our students grow into hard-working, capable, and compassionate individuals prepared for success beyond graduation.
Voting Information
Please remember to vote on the annual school budget and board seat on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, between 12:00 noon and 9:00 p.m. in the Atrium. If you have any questions regarding absentee or early mail voting, please contact our District Secretary, Mrs. Lorelyn Webb.
On behalf of our Board of Education, faculty, and staff, thank you for your continued trust, support, and partnership. Together, we are shaping the future of Sharon Springs.
Sincerely,
Thomas Yorke
Superintendent/K-12 Building Principal
