Multiple U.S. School Districts Approve Budgets with Tax Increases for 2025–26

Several school districts across the U.S. have recently approved their budgets for the 2025–2026 school year, all including property tax increases to fund key priorities. Fort Mill School Board approved a $254.5 million budget with a 21.2 mill property tax increase, enabling investments in staff salary increases, special education, and new school openings. Bristol Township School Board passed a $180.3 million budget with a tax hike that increases the average homeowner's bill by about $10.35 monthly to maintain and improve student services. Easton Area School District approved a $214.1 million budget with a 3.5% tax increase, partially to fund a new $298 million high school, while cautioning about future fiscal challenges. The Grand Erie District School Board established a $425 million operating budget emphasizing direct classroom instruction and new staffing hires, ensuring sustainability without drawing on reserves. Chicopee School Committee approved a $133.8 million budget, reflecting increased funding primarily through Chapter 70 and city contributions, with adjustments made after transportation bids came in higher than expected.