Reporters Corner: Rockland School Budget With Cuts Heads to Vote

The Rockland Central School District has adopted a proposed $33.9 million budget that will go before voters on May 19, marking a key moment for the newly merged district.

The Board of Education approved the budget earlier this week. It includes a 4.48 percent tax levy increase and eliminates seven staff positions, including two elementary school teachers, a social studies teacher, and a physical education position. Some reductions will also come through attrition, with certain roles left unfilled after retirements.

Interim Superintendent Keith Lewis said the cuts will have some impact, particularly on class sizes. Currently averaging between 15 and 18 students, classes are expected to increase by about three to four students.

District officials say academic programs will remain intact, but there will be reductions in other areas. Summer school enrollment, for example, will drop from about 100 students to 80 as part of efforts to close a previously projected $1.2 million budget gap.

If voters reject the budget, the district could be forced into a contingency budget, which would prevent any tax levy increase and eliminate roughly $700,000 in expected revenue. Officials say that could lead to deeper cuts, including reductions in supplies, equipment, and staffing.

The financial pressures facing Rockland reflect a broader trend across the region. School districts are dealing with rising costs tied to health insurance, contractual obligations, utilities, and special education services, while revenue growth, particularly state aid, has not kept pace.

The budget process comes as the district continues adjusting after the 2024 merger of the Livingston Manor and Roscoe Central School Districts. This is the first full school year of the combined district, and a permanent superintendent is expected to take over this summer.

A public budget hearing is scheduled for May 5, ahead of the May 19 vote, when residents will also weigh in on school board elections.