Carlynton School Board passes budget with 6.6% tax increase

A tax increase in Carlynton School District will help fund specialized educational services and future capital projects, district officials say.

Directors in June approved the district’s $35.9 million budget, which includes a 6.6% tax increase.

“We understand that any tax increase is significant, and we do not take this decision lightly,” the district said in a statement. “However, these funds are vital for continuing to provide a high-quality education and safe learning environments for all our students.”

One mill generates $732,951 in revenue.

The hike is a 1.7650 mill increase, raising the district’s millage rate from 26.7432 to 28.5082.

The owners of a home at the district’s $107,200 median assessed value would pay an additional $189 on their annual school property tax bill.

In its statement, the district said there is a need for increased revenues to support educational programs and capital improvements to accommodate a growing student body. Inflation also played a factor in the tax increase.

“The Carlynton School District is responding to an increasing demand for specialized educational services by hiring additional staff, including a Special Education Teacher, a Speech Therapist and three Paraprofessionals,” the district’s statement said. “We are also expanding our support for English Language Learners through collaboration with the Allegheny Intermediate Unit.”

Carlynton is also in the planning stages of renovating Carnegie Elementary School, the statement said. Construction on that project is expected to begin next year.

“This renovation will address critical infrastructure upgrades, space reconfigurations, and enhancements to safety and accessibility, ensuring a healthier and safer learning environment for our children.”

The district also intends to upgrade the junior-senior high school’s shop area to make way for an advanced production studio.

A copy of the budget can be found on the district’s website.