School Funding Gaps Spread Statewide, Superintendents Warn

Mohonasen, Niskayuna, and Guilderland districts face multi-million dollar shortfalls as expenses outpace state aid.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 1:49am

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Superintendents in several Schenectady County school districts are sounding the alarm about a growing school funding crisis. As expenses continue to rise faster than state Foundation Aid, districts like Mohonasen, Niskayuna, and Guilderland are facing multi-million dollar budget gaps for the upcoming 2026-2027 school year, potentially leading to program cuts.

Why it matters

School funding disparities and inadequate state aid have been an ongoing issue in New York, with some districts struggling to keep up with rising costs. The warnings from these local superintendents suggest the problem is becoming more widespread and systemic, potentially impacting educational opportunities for students across the state.

The details

Mohonasen Central School District Superintendent Shannon Shine said 'almost all districts are about to have financial challenges' and that this will 'probably be the last year we'll be able to effectively roll over our budget.' The funding gaps are driven by expenses outpacing the state's Foundation Aid formula, which has not kept pace with inflation and rising costs.

  • Mohonasen's school board is set to vote on their budget for the 2026-2027 school year in the coming week.

The players

Shannon Shine

Superintendent of Mohonasen Central School District.

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What they’re saying

“Almost all districts are about to have financial challenges, including Mohonasen. This will probably be the last year we'll be able to effectively roll over our budget.”

— Shannon Shine, Superintendent

The takeaway

The funding crisis facing school districts in Schenectady County highlights a systemic problem with school financing in New York that is spreading statewide. As costs continue to rise faster than state aid, districts may be forced to make difficult decisions about cutting programs and services, potentially impacting educational opportunities for students.