The Ogdensburg City School District Board of Education adopted its proposed 2026-27 budget during its March 16 meeting. The spending plan maintains academic programs, supports long-term district sustainability, emphasizes fiscal responsibility and reduces costs.
The proposed budget will go before voters during the statewide school budget vote on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.
The board approved a proposed $58,228,386.26 budget for 2026-27, a 3.81% increase, or $2,135,407.26, over the current year. The proposal includes a $100,000 Capital Outlay Project to replace flooring at Ogdensburg Free Academy. The district expects 98% state reimbursement, bringing the estimated local project cost to $2,000.
The district proposes a 3.99% tax levy increase, or $433,404, for a total levy of $11,295,663. The increase is within New York state’s allowable tax cap for Ogdensburg, and requires a majority vote for approval.
“This budget supports the programs and people who directly impact our students while upholding our responsibility to taxpayers,” Superintendent Kevin Kendall said. “However, insufficient State Aid funding continues to place significant pressure on our district. Despite rising costs and ongoing enrollment challenges, we remain committed to providing high-quality learning experiences for all students.”
The proposal includes the district’s elementary reconfiguration plan. Under the plan, Grant C. Madill Elementary will become a primary school for UPK-1 students, and John F. Kennedy Elementary will serve as an intermediate school for grades 2-6. Ogdensburg Free Academy will continue to serve grades 7-12. Read more about the plan here.
Voters will also consider a separate proposition to purchase 13 student transportation vehicles at a cost not to exceed $2,521,504. The gas-powered buses qualify for up to 85% state reimbursement. The district’s previous vehicles are no longer under warranty.
This year’s ballot will also include the election of two Board of Education members, each to serve a five-year term beginning July 1, 2026.
A public budget hearing will be held May 6 to allow residents to ask questions and learn more. The district’s 2026-27 Bridges newsletter will be mailed to households in mid-May with additional details.
The budget vote will take place Tuesday, May 19, 2026, from noon to 9 p.m. in the main lobby of Ogdensburg Free Academy. More information is available at https://www.ogdensburgk12.org/budget-finance/.