Pearl River Trustees Propose $69 Million School Budget

PEARL RIVER, NY — On May 21, voters in the Pearl River school district will have their say on the budget for the 2019-20 school year. Three presentations on the spending plan are coming up:

• Middle School PTA Meeting: Tuesday, May 14, 2019 – 9:30 AM
• Evans Park PTA Meeting: Thursday, May 16, 2019 - 9:30 AM
• Lincoln Avenue PTA Meeting: Monday, May 20, 2019 – 9:30 AM

The proposed spending package is $69,240,850, up 1.71% from the current year. The tax levy increase is 1.52%, below the state's property tax cap.

Curriculum, instruction and employee benefits make up 82% of the projected expenses. Among the highlights are implementation of a new elementary science curriculum in kindergarten through third grade, with a pilot program for grade 4.

District officials cut costs with a reduction in out-of-district special education placements, staff reductions and a series of changes including eliminating Sunday marathon play rehearsals and Sunday athletic practices.

Two trustees are running for re-election, Robert Davis and Christine Reddy. The term commences on July 1, 2019 and runs through June 30, 2022.

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Pearl River High School's Pirate Cove (275 E. Central Ave.).