Student Advocacy

The Palmyra-Macedon Central School District has a proud tradition of helping our students Learn, Grow, and Contribute while remaining responsible stewards of your tax dollars.

However, the Governor’s 2026-2027 Executive Budget proposal presents a significant threat to our fiscal stability and the quality of education our children deserve.

The Disconnect: State Mandates vs. Local Support

While the Governor proposes a 5.7% increase in the State’s own operating funds, school districts like Pal-Mac are being limited to a 1% Foundation Aid increase. This "save harmless" minimum does not keep pace with basic inflationary pressures, energy costs, and contractual obligations.

Consider the disparity in the current proposal:

• The State's Formula: Calculates that the local contribution from Pal-Mac taxpayers should increase by $489 per student.
• The State's Support: Provides an aid increase of less than $95 per student.

A Sustainable Future at Risk

For years, Pal-Mac has worked diligently to maintain a long-term financial plan. But continued shortfalls in operating aid create budget gaps that may force some difficult choices for the future.

• Programs for Students: We may be forced to sacrifice the very programs and services that define a Pal-Mac education.
• Taxpayer Burden: The gap shifts the weight of state-mandated costs directly onto our local residents.

Our district leaders have written to our representatives to demand a more equitable budget.

If you would like to join the District in advocating changes to Governor Hochul, we have included resources for you to do so. We've also included sample messaging for our local representatives.

Advocacy Letter Resource Hub