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The 2025-26 Proposed Budget

The 2025-26 Budget Proposal requests authorization to increase spending 5.45% to $110,572,957. This would result in a tax levy increase of 2.03%, which complies within the parameters of the New York State Tax Cap.

Key Budget Guidelines

The proposed spending plan and estimated revenues balance a budget that meets the Board of Education Budget Guidelines adopted in September. It ensures spending meets all applicable mandates; health, safety, and legal requirements; fulfills contractual obligations; complies with the New York State Tax Cap; and provides appropriate resources and effort to support the execution and implementation of the action plans developed as part of the Brighton Blueprint for the following strategic areas:

• Mental Health and Wellness
• Academic Excellence
• The Family and Student Experience
• Operations

Summary of Proposed Spending by Object

The proposed increase in spending of 5.45% is primarily driven by the inflationary costs associated with a personnel driven industry – salaries and benefits. It also reflects inflationary pressures on expenditures necessary for operations of our schools, mandated contractual services required in response to student needs, and addition of staff to maintain elementary class sizes and meet mandated services. To offset the inflationary pressures, the District reduced spending by approximately 2% from the preliminary budget. The District reduced allocations to departments, reduced certain teacher leadership positions, and froze certain unfilled positions that remained vacant the majority of the current school year. 

Salaries and benefits represent 67% of the 2025-26 Proposed Budget. Salaries and wages are increasing due to contractual increases; increases in minimum wage; and addition of staff to meet mandates, maintain class size, and continue funding for positions added with federal stimulus dollars that have since expired. Benefits are increasing 8.7% primarily due to health insurance. 2025 premiums increased 14.4% for active employees and retiree health care costs are forecasted to increase 48% due to changes in Medicare funding. BOCES increases are attributable to inflationary pressures and an increase in student services. Other increases are attributable to inflationary pressures such as utility rate increases, insurance, contract transportation, mandates services, and debt from previously approved capital projects.

The 2025-26 Proposed Budget attempts to be responsible, respectful, and responsive to the broader adverse economic conditions that our families face. It minimizes the tax impact by setting the levy at the tax cap limit, optimizes current resources in order to preserve programs and services, and considers the long-term implications of financing strategies. These strategies include appropriation of additional fund balance and reserves and budgeting for projected interest earnings based on current rates of return.

The District’s two primary sources of unallocated revenues are the property tax levy and State Foundation Aid. Combined, these two sources of revenue are projected to increase by $1.8 million. This allows for a growth in spending equal to 1.7%. Other increases in State Aid are categorical aids, meaning they are a reimbursement for costs incurred in the current budget and are expected to recur. The most significant categorical aids are Transportation Aid, Building Aid, and Handicapped Education Aids.

Estimated Impact on Tax Bill

At the ballot, voters are considering the spending plan proposed by the District. However, voters naturally consider the impact that the spending plan will have on their property taxes. The proposed increase in the tax levy is 2.03%. Considering the pause on the town-wide reassessment in the Town of Brighton, the State needed to recalibrate the equalization rate. The resulting change in the equalization rates for both towns shifts the allocation of the tax levy from Brighton to Pittsford creating a disparity in the estimated change in tax rates. Absent any change in a home’s assessed value and assuming no growth in the tax base, the average tax bill for a home assessed at $250,000 may increase $137 (+1.96%) in the Town of Brighton and $492 (+7.16%) in the Town of Pittsford.

*Impact on tax bill caused by increase in levy AND redistribution of the Tax Levy resulting from change in equalization rates: (assumes average assessed value of $250,000). This estimate is based on 2024 taxable assessed values and is subject to change based on overall appreciation/depreciation in either Town.

Percentage meeting or exceeding the NYS Standards compared to Schools in Monroe #1 BOCES and Monroe County*

*The District data included herein is verified in the New York State repository.

Advanced Placement Participation
Advanced Placement courses are offered in Art History, Biology, Calculus (AB and BC), Chemistry, Computer Science (A and Principles), English Language, English Literature, Environmental Science, European History, French, German, Human Geography, Music Theory, Physics (1, 2, and C), Psychology, Spanish, Statistics, Studio Art, U.S. Government, U.S. History, and World History. The District has focused on improving the number of students taking at least one AP course as a senior.

Percent of Graduates Taking at Least One AP Course

SAT

The SAT is a standardized test used by many colleges during the college admission process. In 2016, The College Board changed the format of the SAT exam to consolidate reading and writing into one section. The SAT Reasoning Test assesses students’ knowledge in the areas of reading and writing and math. Scores range from 200 to 800 on each section. Brighton students continually score above the New York State and national averages.

Reading and Writing

 Math

ACT

The ACT assesses high school students’ educational development and their ability to complete college-level work. The multiple-choice tests cover four skill areas: English, mathematics, reading, and science. The highest possible score on the test is 36. Brighton students continue to score above the state and national averages.  

Composite Scores

Graduation Rate

The District has looked to improve its graduation rates among all subgroups. Those numbers have improved from 2013 to 2024.

Where is the Class of 2024?

88% of the students in the Class of 2024 planned to continue their education at 4 or 2-year colleges. Brighton students enrolled in more than 116 different post-secondary institutions. 12% of Brighton students had other plans including employment, military, and travel.

Points of Pride

• Awards/Honors
  • Ranked as No. 2 District in Rochester by Niche.com in 2025.
  • Niche ranked Brighton High School as the No. 3 high school in the Rochester area and Twelve Corners Middle School as the No. 2 middle school.
  • Niche also ranked the District No. 1 for best places to teach in the Rochester area and No. 1 for best teachers in the Rochester area.
  • BHS named a National Blue Ribbon School in 2018.
  • TCMS re-designated as a School to Watch in 2024.
  • BHS was named to the 2024 AP School Honor Roll, earning Gold distinction for delivering results to our students while broadening access to AP programs.
  • Brighton High School was named a NYS Reward School for increased student achievement and closing gaps in student performance between subgroups of students in 2017.
  • BHS was named one of Newsweek’s Top 500 STEM High Schools in its nationwide 2020 ranking. BHS was ranked No. 1 in the Rochester area, No. 10 in New York, and No. 117 in the country.
  • Council Rock Primary School became the first primary school in the United States to receive an International Habits of Mind School of Excellence Award in 2019.
• Access, Opportunity, and Social Emotional Learning
  • Full implementation of Social Emotional Learning curriculum at Council Rock Primary School with counselor support.
  • Implementation of Second Steps and Learning for Justice lessons with counselor support at French Road.
  • Hosting and continued facilitation of the Teacher Pipeline program with St. John Fisher University.
  • Created school-based equity teams to improve each building's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion practices.
  • Implemented new hiring practices to make the hiring and interview process more equitable and attract diverse candidates.

• Extracurricular Activities
  • There are over 100 clubs and a variety of academic competitions at the elementary, middle, and high schools.
  • The 2024 Crossroads yearbook earned top honors in New York state from the Empire State Scholastic Press Association.
  • BHS’ DECA Club had seven event finalists at the 2024 Regional Competition.
  • The Brighton Model UN Club had several students win Outstanding Delegate honors at the 2024 Hilton Model UN Conference.

Full Continuum of Services

All students in the District experience rigor and variety in their coursework. Brighton provides students with every opportunity to graduate with the skills necessary to move on to college or a career and to develop their talents to their maximum potential and become successful learners, leaders, and contributors. Programs available to and in support of students include:

• Alternative instructional models for high school students to improve success through hands-on learning, community service, and counseling 
• BHS Achievement Centered Education (ACE) Program
• Outdoor Education as an extension of the sixth grade life science curriculum 
• Field trips that enhance the curricula and provide real-world experiences
• Literacy, math, and science, social studies, and world language instructional leadership supports
• Non-mandated AIS supports
• EMCC Course Opportunities including Auto Services, Automated Manufacturing & Machining, Childcare Professions, CISCO Networking Academy, Collision Repair Technology, Construction Trades, Cosmetology, Criminal Justice, Culinary Arts, Emergency Services, Health Careers, Human Performance and Exercise Science, Interactive Media and Game Design, Nail and Waxing Specialty, New Vision Medical Careers, PC Repair/Network Cabling, Trade Electricity, Visual Communication and Photography, and Welding and Fabrication.
• Extended studies opportunities for all K-12 students including independent studies, enriched academic courses, and dual credit courses through MCC and Syracuse University
• Instrumental music starting at fourth grade
• Sixth grade foreign language
• Accelerated math beginning at fourth grade
• Elementary and high school summer school programs
• Morning shows at TCMS and BHS
• Opportunities for a wide variety of electives in all content areas
• More than 20 Advanced Placement courses in different content areas

Board of Education Candidates for Two Seats

The three candidates for two seats are presented in the order that their names will appear on the ballot.

Clayton Jones (Resident 15 years)

Education: B.S., Psychology, Florida A&M University; M.S., Psychology, Florida State University; Ed.D., Educational Administration, University of Rochester (anticipated completion in Fall 2026)

Profession/Employment: Senior Director, Local Government and Community Relations, University of Rochester

Family: Wife, Sheila; Children, Marlie (sixth grader at TCMS) and Soleil (fourth grader at FRES)

School/Community Activities: Member, Brighton Central School District 2024 Blueprint Planning Day; Member, Town of Brighton 2024 Budget Review Taskforce; T-Ball Coach, Brighton Little League, 2023.

Statement: My name is Clayton Jones, and I'm running for school board to help build on the Brighton Central School District's strong foundation as a preeminent school district for our community. I believe a thriving school system strengthens our entire community, and I'm committed to listening, learning, and working collaboratively to support Brighton's continued success. In my career, I've worked to bridge higher education and community needs — connecting residents to resources, services, and programs, and helping institutions better understand and serve their communities. This work has taught me the value of shared vision, honest dialogue, and inclusive decision-making. Having worked across public and private academic settings, I understand how essential the student and family experience is to informing decisions and outcomes. I'll bring a steady, thoughtful voice to the board, grounded in connection and district success. Thank you for your time — and I hope to earn your support.

Karen Hatch (Resident 18 years)

Education: B.A., English Literature, Mount Holyoke College; M.S., Special Education, Wheelock College

Profession/Employment: Community volunteer and homemaker

Family: Husband, Dirk Bernold; children, Lizzy (Class of 2020), Teddy (Class of 2022), and Peggy (Class of 2035)

School/Community Activities: Member, Board of Education; Member, Board of Education Audit Committee; Member, TCMS School-Based Equity Team; Co-Chair, MCSBA Legislative Committee; Member, MCSBA Steering Committee; Member, World Language Curriculum Review Committee; Former Member, MTSS/AIS/RTI Curriculum Review Committee; Former Member, Curriculum Council; Former Member, District Environmental Committee; Former Member, FRES Principal Interview Committee; Former Member, District Special Education Review Committee; Member, PTSA; Former Treasurer, PTSA; Former President, PTSA; Former Vice President, PTSA; Former Building Chair, CRPS; Former Chair, PTSA District Spirit Wear; Former Co-Chair, PTSA Calendar Committee; Former Chair, PTSA Honorary Life Membership Committee; Former Chair, Nancy F. Beck Memorial Grant Committee; Former Member, Athletic Director Search Committee; Former Member, Assistant Superintendent Search Committee; Former Member, PPS Director Search Committee; Former Chair, Hochstein Youth Symphony Orchestra Parent Action Committee; Former Member, Associate Board, Cancer Action Network.

Statement: It has been my privilege to serve the needs of Brighton’s children and families, both as a parent leader and during my three terms as a member of the Board of Education. I believe that Brighton needs a candidate who not only has deep understanding of the budgeting process and the issues we face at the State and Federal level, but also a candidate who insists that we follow through on efforts to ensure that all students have an equitable environment that serves their academic, social, and emotional needs. As the parent of two BHS graduates and a rising third grader, I have a unique perspective on the developmental continuum of students from preschool through their high school experience. If elected to another term, I will continue the work to ensure that all students have access to a culturally responsive curriculum, to continue my work with the Monroe County School Boards Association to educate NYS elected representatives on the impact of the current Foundation Aid Formula, and to complete the next phases of the Brighton Facilities Improvement Project, while continuing to navigate the uncertainties posed by conditions on a Federal level. Our community expects high-quality and innovative programming; my constant goal is to ensure that the District can meet the needs of all students in a financially responsible manner.

Vinod Bajaj (Resident 24 years)

Education: B.A., Russian Language and Literature, J.N. University India; Master’s in Software Development and Management, Rochester Institute of Technology

Profession/Employment: Recently retired from Product Quality at Baxter Pharmaceutical International

Family: Wife, Neelam Bajaj; Children, Megha (Class of 2000) and Ambar (Class of 2004)

School/Community Activities: Member, Hindu Temple of Rochester Board of Trustee, 2025-present; Member of different committees, Hindu Temple of Rochester; Hindi language teacher for the children of the Indian community, 1985-1990; Education Secretary, Hindu Temple of Rochester; Conversational Hindi teacher for Rochester adults, teachers, and RIT students; Interpreter for Hindi, Punjabi, Bengali, Urdu, Russian, and English; Volunteer, Friends of Strong, University of Rochester.

Statement: I am excited and ready to join the Brighton Board of Education and help out where help is needed. Sources say that Hindi is the fifth-most spoken language in the world. There are 345 million Hindi speaking people. Because of my interest in languages, I would like to add and bring the Hindi language to Brighton’s school curriculum. I will work to bring the Brighton school report card to the next level and help bring more funding. I will also provide foreign language interpretation services when needed to parents at no charge.

Annual Budget Hearing

Tuesday, May 13, 2025, 7 p.m., Central Administration Building Board Room, 2035 Monroe Ave. Televised on Cable channel 1303 and live streamed on our website.

Meet the Candidates Night

PTSA Meet the Candidates Night at 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 14 in the Administration Building Board Room, 2035 Monroe Ave. It will be live streamed on our website.

When and Where to Vote

Tuesday, May 20, 2025, 7 a.m. - 9 p.m., Central Administration Building, Gymnasium, Door 4, 2035 Monroe Ave. Handicapped accessible. All votes will be cast on ExpressVote XL machines. Visit the Monroe County BOE website for more information.

Voting Qualifications

• You must be a resident of the school district for at least 30 days immediately preceding the vote.
• You must be at least 18 years of age.
• You must be a citizen of the United States.
• You need one proof of residency such as a driver’s license or non-driver’s ID.
• You do not need to be registered with Monroe County Board of Elections.

Absentee Ballots

Absentee ballots are available to qualified school district voters. An application for a ballot must first be completed. Applications for absentee ballots must be received by the District on or prior to 4 p.m. May 13 if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or on or prior to 4 p.m. May 19 if the ballot is to be picked up by the voter. For information, call the office of the District Clerk at 242-5200 ext. 5502. Completed absentee ballots must be received by 5 p.m. on May 20, 2025.

Early Voting

Early mail voting ballots are available to qualified school district voters. An application for a ballot must first be completed. Applications for early mail voting ballots must be received by the District on or prior to 4 p.m. May 13 if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or on or prior to 4 p.m. May 19 if the ballot is to be picked up by the voter. For information, call the office of the District Clerk at 242-5200 ext. 5502. Completed early mail voting ballots must be received by 5 p.m. on May 20, 2025.

Additional Information

• Proposed budget details are available in the Brighton Memorial Library and all school offices, including the District Business Office, 2035 Monroe Ave. All budget documents are also posted online at bcsd.org/budget.
• Call Lou Alaimo, Deputy Superintendent, at 242-5200 ext. 5510 if you have budget questions.