On Tuesday, May 19, Cohoes residents will decide on a $57,062,442 spending plan for the 2026–27 school year, representing a 4% increase, or $2,196,945 over the current year’s budget.
The proposed budget includes a 0% increase in the tax levy, keeping it $4,691 below the district’s state‐calculated allowable levy limit. A 0% tax levy increase means the district would not collect more in taxes overall than in the prior year. Because the levy falls within the allowable limit, the budget requires approval by a simple majority of voters, or 50% plus one.
For a home with a market value of $150,000, the estimated tax increase would be $10 per month before STAR exemption.
Additionally, voters will also elect two members to the Board of Education. Incumbent David Jarosz and Mykel Dorsey are running for two open seats.
Budget development
The planning process began with each of the district’s schools and departments conducting a needs assessment, which were submitted to the district’s budget committee. The budget committee then reviewed the return on investment analysis and recommendations were made to the Board of Education for inclusion in the 2026-27 budget.
Budget proposal
The spending plan prioritizes targeted academic support, student services and strategic staffing investments to enhance learning opportunities across the district while maintaining fiscal efficiency through thoughtful resource allocation.
Highlights of the proposed budget include:
- A Math AIS teacher at Abram Lansing (1.0)
- Behavioral Support for Abram Lansing (1.0 TA & 1.0 Teacher Aide)
- ESL Teacher at Van Schaick (.5)
- Functional Skills Classroom serving K-2 special needs students at Harmony Hill
- Instructional Coaching at the middle and high school
- Continued support to the Alternative Learning Program for grades 9-10 transitioning to an offsite location
The proposed plan also includes several positions that carry no additional budget impact, made possible through identified efficiencies. These positions include:
- A 1.0 Math AIS teacher at Harmony Hill
- A 1.0 FTE ESL teacher at Abram Lansing
- Tutoring Center at Cohoes Middle School
- 1.0 Administrative Support for Guidance/Athletics at Cohoes High School
- A Senior cleaner
- Assistant director of facilities servicing the districtwide campuses
Grant funding is anticipated to support a Math AIS teacher at Cohoes Middle School and after school behavior at the elementary level.
Capital Reserve Fund
The community will also vote on a proposition to authorize the creation and funding of a $20 million Capital Reserve Fund for the purpose of financing future capital projects with no additional cost to the taxpayers (no tax increase).
The proposed Capital Reserve Fund is prudent planning for future capital project initiatives as identified through the current HVAC Audit, 2026 Building Condition Survey and ongoing facilities needs.
Board of Education election
Voters will also elect two members to the Cohoes City School District Board of Education, each to serve a three-year term beginning July 1, 2026. The Board of Education is responsible for policies and regulations governing public education in the district.
Learn more about the candidates.
Voting
The annual school budget vote and Board of Education election will be held from noon to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, May 19 at the district’s three polling locations: Abram Lansing Elementary, Harmony Hill School and Van Schaick Grade School.
Download the PDF version of the budget newsletter that was mailed to residents.
Download the May 6 Budget Hearing presentation.