EVCSD Budget 3rd Revote Newsletter

Our schools are the heart of our community, and our primary goal is always to provide the best possible environment for your children to learn, grow, and thrive.

On Wednesday, June 3, our community will head back to the polls for a third budget revote. Your unique perspective as a parent is so valuable to our school community, and when our families share their voices, it helps us build a stronger, brighter future for all of our students. We know how incredibly busy family life can be at this time of year, and it’s completely normal for voting or updating your registration to slip down the to-do list! As we prepare for this next round, we want to make sure every family has a fresh opportunity to participate and vote.

Thank you for your continued support of our students and schools.

Matthew Fedders

Superintendent of Schools

As our school board prepared for the upcoming revote on June 3, our primary focus was adjusting the budget proposal to better align with our community's needs while protecting the quality of education our students receive every day. We want to ensure every family and community member has full transparency regarding both the financial details and what this budget provides for our kids.

In this revised plan, we have successfully reduced overall school district spending compared to last year. However, due to the Common Level of Appraisal, declining student enrollment and a decrease in revenue, local tax rates and per-pupil costs are still impacted.

Here is a direct look at the key budget figures:

• Total Proposed Budget: $7,331,175 — This is a decrease of -$32,854 (-0.45%) in total spending from FY26.

• Per-Pupil Spending: $12,545 — This represents a 9.75% increase from FY26, driven by declining enrollment and revenue decrease.

Estimated Tax Impact by Town: Because property tax rates are adjusted by each towns common level of appraisal, the impact varies by town:

• Town of Washington Residents: The proposed homestead tax rate is $1.72 (an increase of $0.30 from FY26).

• Town of Orange Residents: The proposed homestead tax rate is $1.51 (an increase of $0.17 from FY26).

We have worked hard to balance fiscal responsibility with our commitment to our students. This revised budget proposal continues to protect the core elements that make our schools a great place for your children, including:

• Small Elementary Class Size – Ensuring our students continue to receive individualized attention and support from our dedicated teachers.

• Individualized Support & Programs – Maintaining the programs, and sports teams that keep our students active, engaged, and connected.

• Essential Student Support Services – Preserving our mental health resources, counseling, and academic intervention programs.

• Safe & Up-to-Date Facilities – Funding necessary maintenance to ensure a secure, clean learning environment every day.

To participate in the upcoming vote on June 3, you must be a registered voter in your town. If you aren’t registered yet or aren't sure if you are, getting registered is quick and simple!

Here are three easy ways to register:

1. Register Online (Fastest Option): You can register in just a few minutes by visiting the state’s online voter registration portal here: Voter Registration | Secretary of State

2. Submit a Paper Form: We have attached a voter registration form to this newsletter. Simply fill it out and drop it off at your local Town Clerk’s Office before election day. Voter Registration Form

3. Register at the Polls on Election Day! Life gets busy, and we understand. If you don't have time to register beforehand, you can register to vote directly at your polling place on Election Day (June 3). Just bring a valid ID and proof of residency (like a utility bill or lease agreement with your current address).

Connect With Us!

Feedback is ongoing. Please ask questions or share your thoughts through the following link or QR code. We look forward to hearing from you.

Matthew Fedders

Superintendent

Central Vermont Supervisory Union

111b Brush Hill Road

Williamstown, VT 05679