Spencer-Van Etten Central School District residents approved the district’s proposed 2026–27 budget of $29,893,318 by a vote of 144 to 121 on Tuesday, May 19. Voters also approved the district’s transportation proposition and elected Dan Johnson , Jessica Carr, and Heidi Mouillesseaux-Kunzman to the Board of Education. All results will remain unofficial until the Board of Education meeting on June 11.
The approved budget reflects a projected spending increase of $822,673, or 2.83%, over the current year and includes a 2.14% tax levy increase, which remains within the district’s allowable tax levy limit.
“Throughout this budget development process, we remained focused on aligning our priorities with the district’s Blueprint for Excellence strategic plan while maintaining long-term fiscal responsibility,” Superintendent Patrick Patterson said. “We appreciate our community for their continued support of our schools, students and staff. This budget allows us to continue providing strong academic programs, student services, extracurricular opportunities and safe learning environments for our students and families.”
The district expects approximately $17.7 million in state aid to help support the spending plan. The approved budget maintains all current academic and extracurricular offerings while continuing investments in student learning, student wellness, transportation, facilities and school safety initiatives.
The budget also supports expanded work-based learning opportunities, Science of Reading training for educators, student support services, extracurricular programming and strategic staffing adjustments designed to broaden student experiences.
District officials worked throughout the budget development process to reduce projected gaps through operational efficiencies, BOCES partnerships, use of reserves and careful long-term planning. The spending plan addresses rising costs in health insurance, utilities, retirement contributions and operational expenses while preserving student programming.
The district’s bus proposition, which included the purchase of one 66-passenger student transport vehicle and one SUV-type vehicle for student transportation, was also approved by voters.
Board of Education Vote:
• Dan Johnson - 182
• Jessica Carr – 177
• Heidi Mouillesseaux-Kunzman – 193
Transportation Proposition:
• Yes – 157
• No – 108
Budget Vote:
• Yes – 144
• No – 121
Please note: All results are unofficial until approved at the June 11 Board of Education meeting.