Locust Valley School District Proposes $24.8M for Instruction in 2026-2027 Budget

District also plans $14.6M for special education as part of $98.2M total budget proposal.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 4:05pm

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The Locust Valley Central School District is looking to allocate $24.8 million for instructional purposes and $14.6 million for special education as part of its proposed $98.2 million budget for the 2026-2027 school year. The district aims to maintain high-quality programs, prioritize student safety and well-being, and support whole-child learning while being fiscally responsible.

Why it matters

The Locust Valley school district’s budget proposal reflects its commitment to providing quality education and support services for all students, including those with special needs. As the district navigates changing enrollment and funding dynamics, its budget decisions will impact the community’s access to educational resources and opportunities.

The details

The district’s assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction, Janine Sampino-Retmanski, outlined plans to enhance literacy and math programs, expand leadership opportunities, upgrade technology, and update course offerings. The assistant superintendent for business, Karen Horoszewski, noted that the $14.6 million allocated for special education reflects an anticipated increase in out-of-district BOCES placements and reclassification of budget codes.

  • The Locust Valley Board of Education discussed the proposed 2026-2027 budget during a meeting on March 11, 2026.
  • The district is currently operating with a $98.2 million budget for the 2025-2026 school year.
  • The Board of Education has one more budget meeting planned before adopting the 2026-2027 budget in April.

The players

Janine Sampino-Retmanski

The district’s assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction, who outlined plans for instructional improvements.

Karen Horoszewski

The district’s assistant superintendent for business, who discussed budget codes and the increase in special education spending.

Locust Valley Central School District

A public school district serving the Locust Valley community in New York.

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What they’re saying

“We must maintain and enhance high-quality instructional programs, prioritize student safety, well-being and inclusive practices, support whole-child learning and be fiscally responsible.”

— Janine Sampino-Retmanski, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction

What’s next

The Locust Valley Board of Education will hold one more budget meeting before adopting the 2026-2027 budget in April.

The takeaway

The Locust Valley school district’s proposed budget reflects its commitment to providing quality education and support services for all students, including those with special needs, while navigating changing enrollment and funding dynamics.