At one of our earlier budget hearings, I likened the budget to any other investment such as the purchase of a new vehicle. As consumers we weigh the cost with the return on investment. We also evaluate similar products. Can you purchase another make and model at a better price? What is the performance level of the competition vs. the model you are selecting? Investment in education has similar comparisons. As a taxpayer you should ask questions such as the following:

How do Duanesburg costs per pupil compare with surrounding districts?
How does the performance level of DCS' students compare to similar schools?

The answer to those questions may be more difficult to answer if you do not have children in the district. But if you study the district's fiscal report card it will clearly indicate that our spending per pupil is far below similar districts. In addition, district students historically perform well on NYS assessments.

Next year's estimated tax rate increase is 3.98 percent. The increase is school taxes will actually be offset by the savings accrued from the STAR reduction and state rebate for residents whose combined income is $80,000 or less.

The budget vote is one of the most enjoyable days of the school year for me. While that may sound peculiar to some of you, I enjoy talking with local residents, many of whom I have not seen for some time. Regardless of whether a resident votes for or against the budget, the atmosphere is congenial and pleasant.

We do hope that as many residents as possible exercise their choice by showing up at the polls. Consider the facts and vote accordingly.

Sincerely,

Mark Villanti, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

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