Award-winning performances by Sock’n’Buskin and Pelham Middle School Drama Club
2023-24 Budget Focus
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Budget & School Board Election: Tuesday, May 16
Polls Open 7am-9pm, Pelham Middle School Gym
A Note from the Board of Education
Dear Neighbors,
As you know, the Pelham community is committed to excellence in education for all Pelham students, and the Board of Education shares this commitment. We understand that an excellent education is an investment in the future of our students and community.
We are proud to present a budget that is financially responsible while also meeting the needs of our students. We have kept the tax levy percent increase to 2.07%, which is lower than the rate of inflation and also New York state tax cap compliant. This allows us to focus on keeping class sizes at or below Board guidelines, addressing Covid-related learning loss, supporting the needs of students in special education, supporting athletic and extracurricular activities, and continuing to execute on our strategic plan areas of Cultural Competence, Whole Child, and Authentic Learning. Additionally, we have expanded the District-wide safety coordinator position to full-time because the safety and security of our students is a top priority.
This year, the Board set a goal of not only proposing a fiscally responsible and New York state tax cap compliant budget, but also explaining the use of our reserve funds and developing a long-term facilities plan. We believe that investing in our schools is an investment in the future of our community. That is why we are utilizing approximately $2 million dollars from district reserves to upgrade the middle school heating and air conditioning system and continue replacing aging playgrounds at our elementary schools. We understand that reserve funds are like the District's savings account, and it is crucial to upgrade equipment before it fails to ensure that our students can learn in a safe and comfortable environment. By using money from this “savings account” we can complete this important work without adding to your tax bill.
Furthermore, the budget includes money to complete a full analysis of all school buildings and make a plan for the long-term maintenance and upgrades that will be needed in the future. We recognize that many of our school buildings are near or over 100 years old, and it is our responsibility to keep them in good condition for future generations. This plan can then be tied to a long-term financial plan to ensure that we have the resources necessary to maintain and upgrade our facilities as needed.
Pelham is a special place where so many community members and organizations have gone above and beyond to support our schools for many years. I have heard from many of you at Board coffees and meetings, through emails, and in impromptu conversations around Town about what the Pelham schools mean to you. You have shared stories of your children’s successes and helpful suggestions for improvements, but most of all you have shared your ongoing support for the Pelham Public Schools. We thank you for your consistent support and engagement!
Your Board of Education is committed to safeguarding your investment in our schools and making sure that this investment continues to pay off by “Inspiring a Standard of Excellence for All Students.”
Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Owen-Michaane
President, Board of Education
Celebrating Excellence!
Our students continue to flourish in new and exciting ways!
Science Research remains dominant with multiple students competing at the highest levels
A Pelham 4th grader and 8th grader represented their schools in the Scripps National Spelling Bee Competition
Five PMHS students named National Merit Finalists!
2023-24 Budget: Supporting Our Students
The 2023-24 Proposed Budget seeks to support our students’ needs in a variety of ways, including continuing their academic and developmental recovery from the pandemic, increasing support for special education and English as a New Language (ENL), creating a safe and welcoming environment for students to learn, and advancing the goals of the District’s Strategic Plan. Below are just some of the highlights included in this year’s budget:
Budget Highlights
- Maintaining current level of elementary intervention teachers
Provides access to targeted math and ELA intervention to boost proficiency and help students continue to recover from the pandemic - Increasing one Social Studies Teacher at the high school and the equivalent of two teachers across content areas at the middle school
Ensures sufficient staffing to support course requests, meet enrollment "bump" in Pelham Middle School and keep class sizes within BOE guidelines - Expanding Flexible Furniture to Grade 1
Continues planned roll-out of new furniture in elementary schools to create innovative learning spaces, support individualized instruction, collaboration and student engagement
Budget Highlights
- Expanding Integrated Co-Teaching to Kindergarten
Creates a more inclusive educational setting for our youngest learners - Adding Special Education Teacher to support Special Class enrollment
Provides specialized instruction to meet students where they are academically - Creating part-time CSE/504 Chairperson (grant funded)
Helps meet increased caseload
Budget Highlights
- Replacing MS rooftop heating/cooling units
Provides dependable, energy efficient units and reduces repair/maintenance costs of aging equipment - Continuing phased playground upgrades at all elementary schools
Creates updated play spaces for students and the community across the elementary schools - Expanding Safety Coordinator position to full-time
Provides increased on-site safety coordination, training and oversight
Election At a Glance
2023-24 Proposed Budget
Total: $90,960,000*
Tax Levy Increase: 2.07% - Complies with Tax Cap
- Projected Tax Rate: $16.89 per $1,000 assessed home value
- Continues to build rich academic and extracurricular programming
- Increases staffing at MS/HS to meet enrollment and course requests
- Adds Integrated Co-Teach to Kindergarten
- Maintains current level of elementary intervention teachers
- Creates full-time safety/security consultant
- Expands flexible furniture to 1st grade
Capital Improvements Included in Budget
- Replaces rooftop heating/cooling units at Pelham Middle School
- Continues funding for playground upgrades at all elementary schools
*Total expense budget includes $2 million in one time
capital expenditures
School Board Member election
4 candidates running for 2 open seats on the Board of Education
- Annemarie Garcia
- Connie Garrido-Carmody
- Sidney Burke
- Tade Reen
Email the Board with questions
Voter Registration/Absentee Ballots
Voter Registration Information
The budget vote and school board member election will take place on Tuesday, May 16, 2023 in the Pelham Middle School Gymnasium. Polls will be open from 7:00 am - 9:00 pm. Eligible voters must be registered to vote.*
Voter qualifications
- be 18 years of age or older on the day of the vote
- be a United States citizen
- be a resident of the Pelham School District for at least 30 days prior to the date of the vote
- not be in jail or on parole for a felony conviction
- not claim the right to vote elsewhere
- be registered to vote with either the County Board of Elections or with the School District Board of Registration.
*You are registered if you are on the Westchester County voters’ list and voted at least once during the last 4 years or you have personally registered with the District.
If you are not registered
A qualified voter may register to vote in the May 16, 2023 election by registering to vote with the Westchester County Board of Election. You may contact the Westchester County Board of Elections for additional information at: Westchester County Board of Elections, 148 Martine Avenue, White Plains, New York, 10601, by calling (914) 995-2000, or by visiting their website at: citizenparticipation.westchestergov.com/register-to-vote.
You may also register through the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles website.
Qualifications For absentee ballots
If a registered voter will not be able to get to the polls on Tuesday, May 16, 2023 between 7:00 am – 9:00 pm, for one or more of the following reasons, Absentee Ballots are available:
- absence from county on election day
- temporary illness or physical disability *
- permanent illness or physical disability
- duties related to primary care of one or more individuals who are ill or physically disabled
- resident or patient of Veterans Health Administration Hospital
- detention in jail/prison, awaiting trial, awaiting action by a grand jury, or in prison for conviction of a crime or offense which was not a felony
* Please note that effective January 2, 2023, voters will not have the option of voting in the May 16, 2023 annual budget vote and school board member election by absentee ballot due to risks associated with COVID-19.
To Vote by Absentee ballot
- Fill out a School District Absentee Ballot Application and return it to the District Clerk
- Upon receipt of an Absentee Ballot, fill out the Ballot
- Return the completed Absentee Ballot to the District
Applications, together with instructions for Absentee Ballots, are available on the District’s website.
If Absentee Ballots are to be mailed to the voter, completed Applications must be returned to the District Clerk, 629 Fifth Avenue, Pelham, NY 10803 no later than 4:00 pm on Tuesday, May 9, 2023.
If Applications are delivered personally, they must be turned in to the District Clerk at The Sanborn Map Building, 629 Fifth Avenue, Pelham, NY 10803 by 4:00 pm on Monday, May 15, 2023.
All absentee ballots must be returned by 5:00 pm on Tuesday, May 16, 2023 in order to be included in the tallies.
Pauline Davies, District Clerk, is located in The Sanford Map Building, 629 Fifth Avenue, Pelham, NY 10803. Please contact her for any questions on the Budget Vote and School Board Election at (914) 738-3434, ext. 6
Mark Your Calendar
MAY 17
2023 Tenure Appointments, 7:30 pm, PMS Library
JUNE 7
2023 District Retiree Recognition, 7:30 pm, PMS Library
JUNE 8
BOE Coffee, 9:00 am, Flour Power
Check the District website before each event for more information
Budget Q & A
- What is included in the 2023-24 Proposed School Budget?
- Why is the budget increasing year over year?
- What impact does the budget increase have on my taxes?
- How are the capital improvements in the budget being paid for?
What is included in the 2023-24 Proposed School Budget?
Why is the budget increasing year over year?
What impact does the budget increase have on my taxes?
How are the capital improvements in the budget being paid for?
Budget Breakdown
Components of the year-over-year increase in the 2023-24 Proposed Budget
Expenditures
Expenditures in the proposed 2023-24 budget are $6,720,000 higher than in the current year. Some of the largest drivers of this increase are listed below.
Salary/Benefit increases for existing staff - $2.2 Million
Includes all salary increases as dictated by collective bargaining agreements, health care, retirement and other benefit contributions.
Transfer to Capital - $2 Million
One-time expenditure to replace rooftop heating/cooling units at Pelham Middle School and purchase/install new elementary playground equipment.
Salary/Benefit increases for new staff/program - $946,000
Includes salaries, benefits and materials for new staff proposed to be hired in the 2023-24 school year, including increased staffing at the MS/HS, integrated co-teach in Kindergarten and reinstitution of a special class.
Utilities - $537,000
Covers rising cost of electricity and heating fuel.
Revenues
The bulk of the District’s revenue comes from property taxes, however increases in other revenue categories are helping to offset the increase in expenditures.
NYS Foundation Aid - $2 Million
The District is expected to receive a significant increase in foundation aid from the state, which is being used to partially offset the cost of the District’s academic program.
Use of Appropriated Fund Balance for Capital Expenditures - $2 Million
This one-time appropriation of prior years' surplus will offset the cost of replacing the rooftop heating/cooling units at Pelham Middle School and continue playground upgrades at all elementary schools.
New Property Taxes - $1.4 Million
While property taxes are the largest source of revenue for the District, the share of revenue coming from property taxes has decreased from 81% to 77% year over year.
Earnings on Investment of District Funds - $800,000
Owing to the rise in interest rates, the District will see additional revenue on its holdings in the proposed budget.
2023-24 Budget Appropriations
PROGRAM (INSTRUCTION)
TEACHING-REGULAR EDUCATION
Includes regular education costs including teacher and support staff salaries, curriculum development and teacher training. Salary increase includes addition of secondary teaching positions to meet student need across various curriculum areas, and an interventionist and ENL teacher at the elementary level. BOCES increase reflects greater student demand for occupational education programs.
| 2022-23 BUDGET |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Salaries | $26,421,267 | $27,499,956 | $1,078,689 |
| Equipment | 200,000 | 200,000 | - |
| Contract Services | 251,228 | 231,833 | (19,395) |
| Supplies | 307,517 | 276,053 | (31,464 |
| Tuition - Charter Schools | - | 35,000 | 35,000 |
| Textbook | 251,905 | 284,794 | 32,889 |
| BOCES Services | 3,942,805 | 4,176,991 | 234,186 |
| Total | $31,374,722 | $32,704,627 | $1,329,905 |
SPECIAL EDUCATION
Includes services related to Special Education, including Special Education teachers and tuition for special education students attending programs out of district, per IEP specifications. Increase includes addition of elementary teaching positions to meet student needs.
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Salaries | $6,395,022 | $6,954,649 | $559,627 |
| Equipment | 10,000 | 5,000 | (5,000) |
| Contract Services | 55,400 | 94,000 | 38,600 |
| Supplies | 18,000 | 20,000 | 2,000 |
| Tuition | 635,000 | 726,923 | 91,923 |
| BOCES Services | 539,180 | 718,969 | 179,789 |
| Total | $7,652,602 | $8,519,541 | $866,939 |
SCHOOL LIBRARY & AUDIO VISUAL
Includes costs for the operation of school libraries, HS Info Center and audio visual needs.
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Salaries | $654,739 | $678,148 | $23,409 |
| Supplies | 3,730 | 6,225 | 2,495 |
| Library Books | 25,100 | 24,990 | (110) |
| Total | $683,569 | $709,363 | $25,794 |
TECHNOLOGY
Includes technology support services, network applications, hardware & software support.
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Salaries | $317,076 | $344,422 | $27,346 |
| Equipment | 32,000 | 33,050 | 1,050 |
| Contract Services | 121,950 | 124,750 | 2,800 |
| Supplies | 19,000 | 22,000 | 3,000 |
| Software | 102,875 | 78,895 | (23,980) |
| Total | $592,901 | $603,117 | $10,216 |
PUPIL PERSONNEL
Includes counseling services, school nurses, the school doctor, psychologists, social workers, attendance and building safety services.
|
2022-3 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Salaries | $3,800,806 | $3,926,472 | $125,666 |
| Equipment | 2,000 | 4,000 | 2,000 |
| Contract Services | 332,866 | 338,075 | 5,209 |
| Supplies | 21,750 | 24,674 | 2,924 |
| Total | $4,157,422 | $4,293,221 | $135,799 |
CO-CURRICULAR & INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETICS
Includes co-curricular activity stipends, athletic director, coaches, team equipment, supplies, supervision at athletic events and athletic training services. Supplies increase includes new uniforms for several sports teams.
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Salaries | $972,537 | $1,024,465 | $51,928 |
| Equipment | 8,000 | 8,000 | - |
| Contract Services | 158,900 | 165,972 | 7,072 |
| Supplies | 57,000 | 89,280 | 32,280 |
| Total | $1,196,437 | $1,287,717 | $91,280 |
TRANSPORTATION
Includes mandated transportation for pupils attending private and parochial schools, special needs students and those attending occupational education programs. Also includes transportation for athletic events and certain trips. See note below regarding new transportation contract.*
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Salaries | $33,246 | $39,094 | $5,848 |
| Charter & Athletic trips | 222,600 | 323,038 | 100,438 |
| Contract Transportation | 1,159,097 | 1,316,164 | 157,067 |
| Public Transportation | 58,480 | 66,454 | 7,974 |
| Supplies | 200 | 100 | (100) |
| Total | $1,473,623 | $271,227 | $271,227 |
COMMUNITY SERVICES
Includes allocated costs for use of District fields and facilities by the community.
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Salaries | $35,424 | $36,310 | $886 |
| Contract Services | 41,450 | 41,450 | - |
| Supplies | 15,000 | 15,000 | - |
| Total | $91,874 | $92,760 | $886 |
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
Represents contractually required pension, health, employment taxes and other employment-related costs.
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | $15,371,128 | $16,004,850 | $633,722 |
INTERFUND TRANSFER
Includes District share of summer school costs for special needs students.
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | $35,000 | $40,000 | $5,000 |
LEGAL
Includes legal costs associated with student issues (health, welfare, safety, rights, discipline, disabilities, etc.)
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | $45,000 | $45,000 | - |
Total Program
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | $62,674,278 | $66,045,046 | $3,370,768 |
* Note regarding Transportation: Through approval of the District’s 2023-2024 budget, the Board of Education seeks approval to enter into five-year contracts (September 1, 2023 to June 30, 2028) with Royal Coach Lines, Inc. for out-of-district home-to-school transportation services to nonpublic schools and special education placements and for summer special education transportation services. During the first year of the contract (2023-2024), depending on the number of hours each vehicle is used to transport students, the rate for each 18 to 20 passenger van shall range from $501 to $584 per day, the rate for each 65/66 passenger bus shall range from $634 to $740 per day and the rate for a two-station wheelchair van shall range from $551 to $634 per day. The rates for each subsequent year shall be the rates of the immediately preceding year increased by three (3%) percent.
CAPITAL (BUILDINGS & GROUNDS)
OPERATION & MAINTENANCE
Includes cost for operation and maintenance of all school buildings and grounds, including custodial staff. Increase includes notable cost escalation in utility pricing.
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Salaries | $2,743,275 | $2,814,091 | $70,816 |
| Equipment | 139,200 | 91,200 | (48,000) |
| Contract Services | 1,289,127 | 1,235,076 | (54,051) |
| Property Lease* | 187,598 | 108,372 | (79,226) |
| Utilities | 1,300,000 | 1,836,850 | 536,850 |
| Supplies | 355,500 | 344,000 | (11,500) |
| Total | $6,014,700 | $6,429,589 | $414,889 |
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
Represents contractually-required pension, health, employment taxes and other employment-related costs.
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | $1,522,415 | $1,599,588 | $77,173 |
Debt Service
Principal and interest on capital leases per new accounting pronouncement. Amounts offset in other areas of the budget.
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | - | $199,000 | $199,000 |
TRANSFER TO DEBT SERVICE/DEBT SERVICE
Includes debt service on capital bonds.
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | $6,538,453 | $6,527,906 | $(10,800) |
TRANSFER TO CAPITAL FUND
includes anticipated transfers for District-wide repair and remediation projects accounted for in the Capital Fund. This appropriation represents replacement of the Middle School rooftop HVAC units and playground improvements at certain elementary schools.
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | - | $2,000,000 | $2,000,000 |
Total Capital
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | $14,075,821 | $16,756,083 | $2,680,262 |
ADMINISTRATION (MANAGEMENT)
BOARD OF EDUCATION/DISTRICT MEETING
Includes cost of budget vote, meetings, publications, memberships, consultants, workshops and BoardDocs.
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Salaries |
$3,500 |
$2,750 | $(750) |
| Contract Services | 44,700 | 94,616 | 49,916 |
| Supplies & Materials | 2,000 | 2,000 | - |
| BOCES Services | 12,285 | 51,450 | 39,165 |
| District Meeting | 35,500 | 27,200 | (8,300) |
| Total | $97,985 | $178,016 | $80,031 |
DISTRICT CLERK
Includes stipend for District Clerk.
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Salaries | $12,180 | $12,545 | $365 |
CENTRAL ADMINISTRATION
Includes funds for the operation of the Superintendent’s Office.
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Salaries | $474,831 | $513,390 | $38,559 |
| Contractual | 18,850 | 39,000 | 20,150 |
| Supplies | 4,500 | 4,500 | - |
| Total | $498,181 | $556,890 | $58,709 |
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
Includes funds for the District Business Office including: accounting, payroll, accounts payable and receivable, bidding and audit.
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Salaries | $770,105 | $784,020 | $13,915 |
| Equipment | 500 | 500 | - |
| Contractual & Auditing | 106,940 | 120,140 | 13,200 |
| Supplies | 15,500 | 6,000 | (9,500) |
| Total | $893,045 | $910,660 | $17,615 |
LEGAL
Includes legal costs related to contractual negotiations, labor relations, regulatory compliance, tax certiorari proceedings, etc.
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | $105,000 | $105,000 | - |
PERSONNEL & PUBLIC INFORMATION
Includes funds for advertising/recruiting of certified staff, employee record keeping and the Public Information Officer.
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Salaries |
$429,122 |
$477,390 | $48,268 |
| Equipment | 500 | 2,500 | 2,000 |
| Contractual | 6,000 | 10,000 | 4,000 |
| Supplies | 2,500 | 5,000 | 2,500 |
| Total | $438,122 | $494,890 | $56,768 |
SPECIAL ITEMS
Includes costs for liability and student accident insurance. Also includes school association dues, sewer tax and BOCES administrative fee.
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Insurance | $391,814 | $401,500 | $9,686 |
| Association Dues | 20,000 | 20,000 | - |
| Sewer Tax/Judgement Claims | 56,000 | 56,000 | - |
| BOCES Admin. Charge | 395,348 | 417,491 | 22,143 |
| Total | $863,162 | $894,991 | $31,829 |
INSTRUCTION, ADMINISTRATION & IMPROVEMENT
Includes costs for administration, evaluation and revision of the instructional program, including funds for student supervision and operation of the principals’ offices. Also includes staff development costs.
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Salaries | $2,489,062 | $2,723,799 | $234,737 |
| Contractual | 183,800 | 165,828 | (17,972) |
| Supplies | 27,289 | 40,233 | 12,944 |
| Total | $2,700,151 | $2,929,860 | $229,709 |
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
Represents contractually required pension, health, employment taxes and other employment-related costs.
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | $1,882,075 | $2,076,019 | $193,944 |
Total Administration
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | $7,489,901 | $8,158,871 | $668,970 |
Total Budget
|
2022-23 |
2023-24 BUDGET |
INCREASE (DECREASE) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | $84,240,000 | $90,960,000 | $6,720,000 |
The three-part budget format (program, capital, administration) presented above is in accordance with NYSED Budgeting Handbook 3 guidelines.
How the Budget is Spent
Our budget continues to focus its spending on students.
Program - 72.6%
Teachers, support staff, books, technology and supplies directly related to students and instruction
Capital - 18.4%
Utilities, operation/maintenance of facilities and debt service
Administration - 9%
Central and business offices, building-level administration, legal costs and insurance
How Pelham's Projected Per Pupil Cost Compares with Other Districts
Our spending is consistently in the bottom quartile compared with other districts reporting data in Westchester, Rockland and Putnam.
10 Lowest Spending
East Ramapo - $24,082
Mamaroneck - 26,439
Peekskill - 27,102
Ossining - 27,963
Pelham - 27,978
New Rochelle - 29,163
Eastchester - 29,257
Lakeland - 29,580
Yorktown - 29,879
Croton-Harmon - 30,372
10 Highest Spending
Pocantico Hills- -$132,752
Byram Hills - 40,502
South Orangetown - 40,108
Irvington - 36,941
Chappaqua - 36,307
Bedford - 35,769
Mt. Pleasant - 34,800
Harrison - 33,943
Brewster - 33,673
Somers - 33,583
Median
$31,280
*Based on 2021-22 actual spending of reporting districts. Complete projected 2022-23 data was not available.
Budgeted Revenue
Property Taxes - $70,002,518
The majority of the District’s revenue comes from property taxes. The increase is compliant with the cap allowed by NYS law for the Pelham Public Schools.
State & Federal Aid - $12,742,649
This amount is based on the State’s preliminary budget as of April 2023 (subject to change) and includes an increase in Foundation Aid from the state.
Miscellaneous Receipts - $3,329,833
This includes money from categories such as tuition and health services from other districts, shared town maintenance, interest on deposits, county sales tax revenue, rental of real property, and other miscellaneous revenue items.
Appropriated Fund Balance - $2,710,000
This includes an appropriation of fund balance generated from favorable past operating results. This includes $2,000,000 for 1-time capital expenses and $150,000 from the ERS Pension Reserve.
Appropriated Fund Balance - Debt Service Fund - $2,175,000
This money is an appropriation from the Debt Service Fund, which includes excess proceeds from past bonded capital projects and premiums on recent borrowings.
Tax Rate Info
Projected Tax Rate Per Thousand
| 2022-23 Actual |
2024-24 Projected |
Change | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | $84,240,000 | 90,960,000 | 7.98% |
| Tax Levy | $68,581,807 | 70,002,518 | 2.07% |
| Tax Rate, Res. Homeowners* Homestead Tax Rate |
$18.33 | $16.89 | $-1.44 |
| Tax Rate, Commercial Property Owners* Non-Homestead Tax Rate |
$24.81 | $24.90 | $0.09 |
*Tax rates are per $1,000 of assessed value. The 2023-24 school taxes are based on the 2022 assessments. Rates are subject to change.
How to Calculate Projected School Taxes for 2023-24
Residential Homeowners
Using your property’s 2022 assessed value:
- Divide your total assessed value* for 2022 by $1,000 to get your value on a per $1,000 basis.
- Multiply by $16.89, the projected tax rate.
- Deduct Basic STAR savings of $1,455 or Enhanced STAR savings of $3,386, if applicable.
*Veteran and Partial Exemptions should be deducted from your total assessed value, as applicable.
Tax Examples
The following examples illustrate what the net impact on school taxes will be assuming a 9.84% increase in assessed value.
| Home Value | Estimated Annual Tax Increase | Estimated Total 2023-24 School Tax |
| $600,000 | $135 | $11,132 |
| $1,038,000 | $233 | $19,259 |
| $1,475,000 | $331 | $27,367 |
Assessed Valuation
Assessed valuation has an impact on the amount of taxes a homeowner pays. As of April 2023, the homestead assessed valuation increased by $301,109,247 from the prior year and the non-homestead increased by $27,922,249. These assessment figures are subject to change before tax bills are issued.
| Projected Residential Valuation | $3,364,067,318 |
| Projected Commercial Valuation | $529,298,338 |
| Projected Total | $3,893,365,656 |
2021-22 District Report Card - Inspiring a Standard of Excellence for All Students
Demonstrating Excellence
As part of the Teachers College Reading/Writing Project, teachers use pre and post assessments called “On-Demands” to help measure students' progress throughout a particular unit. These assessments ask students to write a piece in narrative, opinion/argument or information writing at the beginning of the unit. This provides students and teachers an understanding of the students’ baseline strengths and needs, allowing them to set individualized goals for the remainder of the unit. The post-unit on-demand allows them to see their growth and reflect on what they’ve learned.
Eighth grade students are working on a collaborative photo collage style mural, showcasing a surreal panorama of the Town of Pelham that will be hung permanently in the Pelham Middle School Lobby. With the support of a Pelham Education Foundation grant, the students are working with Connecticut based artist Rashmi Talpade. The mural is expected to be completed by mid-May and we can’t wait to see the final product!
The 2022-23 school year has been an incredible success for our PMHS Science Research program. For the first time ever, three students won top honors at the Regeneron Science Talent Search Competition. Then, at the Westchester Science and Engineering Fair (WESEF), Pelham had the most number of students invited to the awards ceremony of all schools in the competition, with the maximum of three earning first place in their respective categories, not to mention success at the JSHS competition. Congratulations to Sienna Giuseppi (Environmental Science), Emma Van Praagh (Neuroscience) and Robbie Shepherd (Physics & Astronomy) who will be competing at the prestigious ISEF event this month!
Success by the Numbers
Our Graduates: Class of 2022
Whether they choose to continue their studies in college, pursue a career or further explore their interests, PMHS Graduates continue to succeed beyond their time in high school. Please take a look at the colleges those in the Class of 2022 are attending below!
| Attending College | 93.3% |
| 4-Year Schools | 88.3% |
| 2-Year Schools | 5.0% |
| Regents Diplomas with Honors Earned | 45.2% |
| Total Regents Diplomas Earned | 100% |
| Graduation Rate, Bridge Academy* | 100% |
*An alternative program for students at PMHS better suited in a non-traditional high school program.
Improving College Readiness
Our Students: Taking More Challenging Courses & Succeeding
By offering numerous AP and college-credit bearing courses, Pelham Memorial High School is seeking to both help students get accepted to the colleges/universities that are right for them and give them the tools to be successful in their studies. These courses also allow students to explore and refine their interests.
4-Year Perspective - Students enrolled in Advanced Placement Courses
| Year | # of Students Enrolled |
|---|---|
| 2018-19 | 428 |
| 2021-22 | 448 |
Students enrolled in College Level Courses 2010-21
| Type of College Level Course | # of Students Enrolled |
|---|---|
| SUNY | 232 |
| Adelphi | 78 |
| SUPA | 87 |
Advanced Placement Tests Score Comparison
| Advanced Placement Tests | # Tested | Pelham % Scoring 3 or Higher | NYS % Scoring 3 or Higher |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Literature & Composition | 39 | 97.4 | 73.1 |
| English Language & Composition | 135 | 75.5% | 53% |
| U.S. History | 138 | 68.1% | 47.3% |
| European History | 30 | 96.7% | 57% |
| Psychology | 43 | 83.7% | 54.3% |
| U.S. Government & Politics | 72 | 68.1% | 46.6% |
| World History | 125 | 75.2% | 67.4% |
| Computer Science Principles | 52 | 75.0% | 56.6% |
| Calculus AB | 27 | 25.9% | 50.0% |
| Calculus BC | 39 | 38.5% | 75.4% |
| Statistics | 50 | 86.0% | 53.9% |
| Biology | 35 | 97.1% | 66.0% |
| Chemistry | 18 | 72.2% | 57% |
| Physics I | 84 | 67.9% | 48.7% |
| Physics II | 49 | 79.6% | 66.2% |
| Environmental Science | 33 | 72.7% | 44.0% |
| Studio Art | 21 | 95.2% | 83.3% |
| Art History | 18 | 83.3% | 50.8% |
Mean SAT Scores - 2022
| Test | PMHS Mean Score | National Mean Score |
|---|---|---|
| Critical Reading | 634 | 529 |
| Math | 608 | 521 |
Mean ACT Scores
| Test | PMHS | National |
|---|---|---|
| English | 30.5 | 19.0 |
| Math | 22.3 | 19.3 |
| Reading | 31.2 | 20.4 |
| Science | 27.2 | 19.9 |
| Composite | 29.7 | 19.8 |
NYS Testing Grades 3-12
2021-22 HS Regents Exams
| Exam | # Tested | % Attaining Proficiency or High Proficiency |
|---|---|---|
| Common Core English | 204 | 98% |
| Global History | 227 | 98% |
| Common Core Algebra I | 99 | 85% |
| Common Core Geometry | 203 | 73% |
| Living Environment | 225 | 94% |
| Chemistry | 217 | 67% |
2021-22 Pelham Middle School Regents Exams
| Exam | # Tested | % Attaining Proficiency or High Proficiency |
|---|---|---|
| Common Core Algebra I | 125 | 98% |
| Earth Science | 276 | 89% |
2021-22 Grades 3-8 English Language Arts & Math Tests
| Exam | # Tested | % Attaining Proficiency or High Proficiency |
|---|---|---|
| Common Core English Language Arts | 1,116 | 75% |
| Common Core Math | 1,158 | 68% |
Colleges Our 2018-2022 Graduates Are Attending
PMHS Students in Best Schools
| Class | Most Competitive | Highly Competitive | Very Competitive | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 39% | 15% | 10% | 64%* |
| 2021 | 38% | 14% | 14% | 66% |
| 2020 | 43% | 13% | 14% | 70% |
| 2019 | 36% | 17% | 14% | 67% |
* Please note that Barron's has discontinued ranking colleges/universities. This data is based on the 2021 Barron's Profile of American Colleges.
Adelphi University
Alvernia University
American International College
American University
American University of Paris
Appalachian State University
Arizona State University, Tempe
Auburn University
Babson College
Baldwin Wallace University
Barnard College
Bates College
Baylor University
Bentley University
Berklee College of Music
Boston College
Boston University
Bowdoin College
Brown University
Bryant University
Bucknell University
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Carnegie Mellon University
Catholic University of America
Champlain College
Chapman University
Clarkson University
Clemson University
Coastal Carolina University
Colby College
Colgate University
College of Central Florida
College of Charleston
College of the Holy Cross
College of Mount Saint Vincent
College of Westchester
Colorado College
Colorado State University, Fort Collins
Columbia College, Chicago
Columbia University in the City of New York
Concordia University, Montreal
Connecticut College
Cornell University
City University of New York (CUNY): Bernard M Baruch College, Borough of Manhattan Community College, Brooklyn College, City College, College of Staten Island, Hunter College, John Jay College of Criminal Justice, Lehman College, New York City College of Technology, Queens College
Curry College
Davidson College
Denison University
DePaul University
Dickinson College
Dominican University New York
Drexel University
Duke University
Dutchess Community College
Eastern Connecticut State University
Eckerd College
Elmira College
Elon University
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach
Emory University
Endicott College
Fairfield University
Farmingdale State College
Fashion Institute of Technology
Florida Atlantic University
Florida State University
Fordham University
Franklin & Marshall College
Gateway Community College
George Washington University
Georgetown University
Gettysburg College
Hamilton College
Hartwick College
Harvard University
Haverford College
High Point University
Hobart William Smith Colleges
Hofstra University
Horry-Georgetown Technical College
Howard University
Hudson Valley Community College
Immaculata University
Indiana University, Bloomington
Iona University
Ithaca College
James Madison University
Jamestown Community College
Johns Hopkins University
Johnson & Wales University, Providence
Kenyon College
Keystone College
La Salle University
Lafayette College
The Landing School
Le Moyne College
Lehigh University
Lincoln Technical Institute, Paramus
Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts
Long Island University‚ CW Post
Loyola University, Chicago
Loyola University, Maryland
Loyola University, New Orleans
Lynn University
Macalester College
Manhattan College
Manhattan School of Music
Manhattanville College
Marist College
Marquette University
Maryland Institute College of Art
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
McGill University
Mercy College
Mercyhurst University
Miami Dade College
Miami University, Oxford
Michigan State University
Middlebury College
Mitchell College
Monash University
Nassau Community College
New York Film Academy, New York City
New York Institute of Technology
New York University
Northwestern University
Nova Southeastern University
Oakland University
Oberlin College
Ohio Wesleyan University
Pace University, New York City
Pace University, Westchester
Palm Beach Atlantic University
Pennsylvania State University, Penn State Main
Pratt Institute
Princeton University
Providence College
Purdue University, Main
Queen's University
Quinnipiac University
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Rhode Island School of Design
Rhodes College
Rice University
Roberts Wesleyan College
Rochester Institute of Technology
Roger Williams University
Sacred Heart University
Saint Joseph's University
Saint Louis University
San Diego State University
Santa Clara University
Santa Fe College
Sarah Lawrence College
Savannah College of Art & Design
School of Visual Arts
Scripps College
Seton Hall University
Shenandoah University
Skidmore College
Smith College
Southern Methodist University
St. John's University, New York
St. Lawrence University
Stanford University
Stella & Charles Guttman Community College
Stevens Institute of Technology
State University of New York (SUNY): Binghamton University, Broome Community College, Buffalo State, College of Agriculture & Technology at Cobleskill, College of Technology at Delhi, Cortland, Fredonia, Geneseo, Maritime, Morrisville, New Paltz, Old Westbury, Oneonta, Oswego, Plattsburgh, Polytechnic Institute, Potsdam, Purchase College, Stony Brook University, University at Albany, University at Buffalo, Westchester Community College
Susquehanna University
Syracuse University
Temple University
Texas A & M University, College Station
Texas Christian University
Texas State University
Trinity College
Trinity College, Dublin
Trinity University
Tufts University
Tulane University of Louisiana
Union College, New York
United States Military Academy
United States Naval Academy
Universidad Nacional Pedro Henriquez Urena
University of Alabama
University College Dublin
University of British Columbia
University of California: Berkeley, Los Angeles, San Diego
University of Chicago
University of Colorado, Denver
University of Connecticut
University of Dayton
University of Delaware
University of Denver
University of Edinburgh
University of Florida
University of Georgia
University of Groningen
University of Hartford
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
University of Kentucky
University of Maryland, College Park
University of Miami
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
University of Mississippi
University of New Hampshire
University of New Haven
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
University of Notre Dame
University of Oregon
University of Pennsylvania
University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh
University of Rhode Island
University of Richmond
University of Rochester
University of South Carolina, Columbia
University of Southern California, School of Cinematic Arts
University of St. Andrews
University of Tampa
University of Texas at Austin
University of Toronto
University of Vermont
University of Virginia
University of Washington, Seattle
University of Wisconsin, Madison
Vanderbilt University
Vassar College
Villanova University
Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University
Wake Forest University
Washington University in St Louis
Wentworth Institute of Technology
Wesleyan University
Western Carolina University
Western Colorado Community College
Western Connecticut State University
William & Mary
Williams College
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Yale University
A Note from Dr. Champ
Dear Pelham Community,
Each year, through the budget process, we reflect on our values and prioritize how we allocate resources to maintain and strengthen the rich and robust educational program offered to our students. This past year, we focused on the core work of teaching and learning as well as continuing the innovation that is a hallmark of our schools. Through that lens, we reviewed how our educational program has grown to provide amazing opportunities and a wealth of supports for our students over the course of our past two strategic plans. Additions such as FLES, a 1:1 Chromebook initiative, innovative flexible furniture and a myriad of elective courses at PMHS have brought rigor, choice and innovation to our academics. An increase in intervention teachers, psychologists and social workers, and extracurricular/co-curricular clubs and activities are helping students come to school ready to learn with supports in place if needed. These are just a sampling of the foundational and innovative programs we have built together.
The proposed 2023-24 budget seeks to build upon those efforts by making use of long overdue state funding to accelerate the goals of our current Strategic Plan, including meeting enrollment needs, expanding supports for our students with disabilities and English language learners and continuing to provide the academic and mental health/wellness supports to assist with pandemic recovery. Importantly, the budget also draws down $2 million in prior years’ budgetary surplus to upgrade playgrounds and replace HVAC infrastructure at the Middle School.
It is my hope that this FOCUS provides a glimpse of the stellar work occurring in our schools and classrooms each day and paints a clear picture of how our financial resources are directly benefiting our District’s greatest asset - our students. Pelham has a longstanding tradition of investing in its schools, knowing that they are the heartbeat of the community. This investment has been central in producing a long history of successful Pelham graduates and is what will enable us to continue to “Inspire a Standard of Excellence for All Students” well into the future.
Confucius tells us, “If you think in terms of a year, plant a seed; if in terms of 10 years, plant trees; if in terms of 100 years, teach the people.” As educators, we have the blessing of doing all three. Thank you for your partnership and for your support, which allows us to continue this important work on behalf of the students of the Pelham Public Schools.
Sincerely,
Cheryl H. Champ, Ed. D.
Superintendent of Schools
Pelham Public Schools by the Numbers
Total Enrollment
2,779
Average Elementary Class Size
19
Graduation Rate
100%
Facilities: Maintaining & Upgrading
In the Budget
This year’s budget includes $2 million to replace the rooftop heating/cooling units at Pelham Middle School and continue upgrading playgrounds at the elementary schools. Please learn more about each project below.
MS Rooftop Heating/Cooling Units
The current air handling units at Pelham Middle School are original to the school’s construction, have become costly to maintain in recent years and utilize a coolant that is becoming obsolete. The budget proposes to replace this equipment with new units, which will be more efficient and reduce maintenance costs.
Playground Upgrades
The budget is proposing to continue the planned upgrade of playgrounds at all elementary schools. This summer, the District expects to install new equipment at Hutchinson School, as planned in the 2018 bond project, and replace the aging playground at Siwanoy using funds from the current year’s budget. Funds from the current proposed budget would be used to upgrade Colonial School’s playground next summer with Prospect Hill’s to follow. These spaces offer a wonderful outlet for our students during recess and also provide significant benefit to the community at large!
Community partnerships
The Pelham Public Schools is thrilled to be partnering with the Junior League of Pelham and Friends of Pelham Sports on two exciting projects to upgrade important facilities in the District.
Julianne’s Playground
Earlier this school year, the District was thrilled to install new play equipment at Julianne’s Playground. This upgrade was just the start of a planned reimagining of the site in partnership with the Junior League of Pelham, which is fundraising to modernize the site as its latest signature project. Please visit the Junior League website to learn more about this exciting initiative!
New PMHS Fitness Center
Friends of Pelham Sports, a nonprofit organization, is partnering with the District to fundraise for a new fitness center at PMHS. The new 2,500 square foot fitness center would exist within the current footprint of the school and would include new equipment to provide a modern space for our students! For more information about the proposal please visit the Friends of Pelham Sports website.
PELHAM Public Schools
629 Fifth Avenue
Pelham, New York 10803
Board of Education
Dr. Michael Owen-Michaane, Pres. - (347) 774-1464
Ian V. Rowe, Vice Pres. - (917) 881-6908
Sue Bratone Childs - (917) 838-2866
Jackie De Angelis - (917) 750-8834
Jessica DeDomenico - (917) 376-9009
Natalie Marrero - (646) 591-3518
Will Treves - (347) 453-7721
Superintendent of Schools
Cheryl H. Champ, Ed. D. - 738-3434, ext. 1155
Editor
Alex Wolff
Designer
Beth Pollock