2025 Budget Information

2025-2026 DISTRICT BUDGET PROPOSAL

Highlights:

- Preserves and strengthens instructional programs for more than 5,500 students 
- Continues capital reserve planning to support the district’s aging infrastructure 
- Ensures ongoing mental wellness initiatives to support Rush-Henrietta students 
- Aligns spending with district priorities and Vision 2037 strategic plan 

Did You Know?

- One of Rush-Henrietta’s objectives is to maintain existing programs and services while minimizing impact to the taxpayers. 
- If the proposed budget is approved, Rush-Henrietta again will have one of the lowest tax rates among the local 17 suburban school districts. 
- Rush-Henrietta has had one of the lowest true value tax rates in Monroe County for many years. 
- Taking into account the School Tax Relief (STAR) benefit - for which all homeowners are eligible - a district resident owning a house assessed at $300,000 would see school tax rise by $106 annually.

The Basics
 
Proposed Budget: $179,134,741
This is the amount of money deemed necessary to provide programs and services to students.

Budget-to-Budget Change: 5.2%
This is the amount of money deemed necessary above and beyond last year’s budget.

Estimated Tax Rate Change: -5.98%
This preliminary tax rate decrease is based on the town of Henrietta reassessment. The final tax rate may be even lower. Since the tax levy must stay under the tax cap, the increase in assessments drives a lower tax rate.

Tax Levy Change: 4.2%
The school tax levy is the total dollar amount the district will collect from property owners to support the annual operating budget. Once approved, this amount is fixed and does not increase if assessments increase.

From the Board of Education

Dear Community Resident:

Let’s address the elephant in the room, shall we?

Last year, our original budget proposal fell 15 votes short of approval. That was in large part due to voter turnout reaching a five-year low and misinformation flowing throughout our community. This year, after listening carefully to residents, we added seven new opportunities to learn more about the proposed budget. These information sessions began in November 2024 and were held as recently as May 1.

The Board of Education has adopted a budget that calls for an estimated tax rate decrease of at least 5.98 percent. The tax levy would increase 4.2 percent, as allowed under the tax cap. The proposed budget supports the district’s goals as outlined in our Vision 2037 strategic plan. The community helped develop this forward-thinking plan last year. This proposal has been designed to be student-centered, equitable, and fiscally responsible.

In addition, we are asking for your approval of a capital reserve fund to support the needs of our aging infrastructure. There is also a proposition on the ballot that will allow us to buy additional buses before the state-mandated switch to electric buses is required. We are planning not only for next year, but for the years ahead. During the budget-planning process, we were careful to remain mindful of the tax impact on residents. Neither the capital reserve fund nor bus purchases will impact the tax rate.

If voters approve the budget, Rush-Henrietta’s projected tax rate will be among the lowest in Monroe County. It’s also important to note that the final true value tax rate for the past 10 years ended up being lower than the proposed rate. The actual tax rate is established after the town assessments are finalized. The school district plays no role in the changing of property assessments.

Your assignment is to read this newsletter. Should you have any questions, we want to know! We are board members but we also are your neighbors. Our request is simple: Please consider the merits of this budget proposal. If any aspect does not make sense to you, or needs further clarification, contact the district at www.rhnet.org/budgettalk. We will respond to you.

All eligible voters are urged to vote between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the Transportation and Operations Center, 1133 Lehigh Station Road. One does not need to own property in the district to vote, but must reside here, be at least 18 years old, and be a U.S. citizen. If you have questions, please contact a board trustee listed to the left. Rush-Henrietta is a wonderful community that has supported its schools for many years. We appreciate that support and the profound impact it has on our district and students. Thank you for learning about our proposed budget. We’ll see you Tuesday, May 20! Sincerely, Scott M. Adair President, Board of Education

Sincerely,

Scott M. Adair
President, Board of Education

The R-H Budget Supports:

Hands-On Opportunities: Students in grades 7-12 have opportunities to explore the trades and take advantage of other important learning opportunities. Webster Learning Center gives students in its Alternative High School program ways to visit local businesses,  providing a look at real-life career opportunities they may want to pursue. For more information, see page 5. Classroom Learning: In addition to the important learning that occurs daily in our classrooms, Rush-Henrietta provides many extra  opportunities for our students to learn and dream big. This year, Burger Junior High students had an incredible opportunity to hear from Clayton Turner, a NASA administrator. He spoke about the many roles that are important in this line of work.

Classroom Learning: In addition to the important learning that occurs daily in our classrooms, Rush-Henrietta provides many extra  opportunities for our students to learn and dream big. This year, Burger Junior High students had an incredible opportunity to hear from Clayton Turner, a NASA administrator. He spoke about the many roles that are important in this line of work.

Athletics: From incredible individual accomplishments to tremendous team victories, our Royal Comets are excelling in sports. The girls varsity bowling team is shown posing for a photo after it won the Section 5 Class A title. Our boys varsity basketball also won at the sectional level this winter. Thank you for your continued support of these hardworking, talented students.

Music: For many consecutive years, Rush-Henrietta has been recognized as one of the Best Communities for Music Education in the nation! Students in grades 4-12 may participate in general music, as well as band, chorus, and orchestra. Whether performing a solo or being a productive member of a high-performing group, our young musicians are growing each day.

Dedicated R-H Employees: The district continues to look for ways to attract and retain caring, skilled employees. That isn’t easy, given the competitive job market that all school districts are encountering today. R-H leaders continue to address this topic with the care and diligence it deserves. Here, Superintendent Mullen honors John Wilcox for his good work as a bus driver.

Successful Futures: R-H strives to help each student develop individual skills and talents that will support them throughout their career and life. Eight out of 10 R-H graduates will pursue post-secondary education. Others seek full-time employment or join the U.S. Armed Forces. Our Career and Technical Education efforts help students understand different career options.

Vision 2037 Strategic Plan
Four Goals and an Example of Each

The following goals and aligned priorities were developed in partnership with the entire Rush-Henrietta community. Together with students, parents, staff, local industry and the greater community, the following goals and priorities were carefully designed to carry out the mission and vision of our district. An example of each goal is shared on these pages.

Goal 1: Excellence for Every Student
• Foster Professional Growth and Collaboration
• Cultivate an Engaging and Adaptive Learning Environment 
• Promote Access and Inclusion for Each Student

Goal 2: Preparing Students for the Pathways to Tomorrow
• Strengthen Career Counseling and Post-Secondary Planning 
• Enhance Workforce Alignment and Readiness
• Sustain Lifelong Learning and Adaptability

Goal 3: A Foundation to Flourish for All Students
• Prioritize Mental Health 
• Promote Inclusive Learning Opportunities
• Instill a Positive School Culture

Goal 4: A Cohesive and Inclusive Community and Culture
• Develop Comprehensive Cultural Competence
• Strengthen an Inclusive and Safe School Climate
• Ensure Student and Staff Voice and Diverse Representation
• Prioritize Family and Community Partnerships in the Learning Process 

New ELA Curriculum Inspires Young Learners (Goal 1)
Rush-Henrietta is placing a renewed emphasis on helping students develop strong literacy skills and is using a new curriculum to support this important work at our K-6 schools. Amplify Core Knowledge Language Arts, or CKLA, is based on decades of early literacy research that shows the importance of wide-ranging background knowledge and explicit and systematic instruction in foundational skills. This impactful curriculum, piloted here this school year, is used successfully nationwide. “By bringing this program to Rush-Henrietta, we have made a significant investment in the future of our students,” says Superintendent Dr. Barbara Mullen. “The teachers are excited about it and so are the students.” Amplify CKLA is grounded in the science of reading research and it incorporates the best practices for teaching foundational reading skills. By combining deep content knowledge with research-based instruction, CKLA ensures that students develop both a strong foundation in reading and a broad understanding of various subjects. The curriculum provides engaging classroom resources and lessons that aim to help students become confident and fluent readers. Through exposure to a wide range of rich topics, students deepen their background knowledge and expand their vocabulary. Research shows that background knowledge and related vocabulary greatly contribute to improved reading comprehension. That is why CKLA integrates content knowledge from science, social studies, and literature into the literacy block. As our students explore the world of fables, folk tales, fairy tales, astronomy, ancient world civilizations, and American history, they also discover their inner geologist, entomologist, ecologist, and poet! The diverse and fascinating topics covered in the program are igniting their curiosity and nurture a newfound love for reading. We look forward to our students experiencing further success with this curriculum, and thank you for your continued support!

Sending Students Into Our Community (Goal 2)
Students from the Alternative High School at Rush-Henrietta’s Webster Learning Center had the opportunity to try their hand at blacksmithing this spring at Rochester Arc & Flame Center. They watched welding demonstrations showcasing the basics of metal fabrication. With growing demand for skilled professionals in the welding industry, students gained valuable insight into the many career opportunities available and discovered how welding is used in countless applications across the world. This is an example of how Rush-Henrietta is working to prepare students for the pathways to tomorrow, providing robust experiences that give a glimpse into possible careers and local industries. 

Offering New Courses to Students (Goal 3)
Rush-Henrietta continues to find innovative ways to meet the needs of its students. In 2026-2027, the Senior High School will begin offering new courses such as Introduction to Theatre, Introduction to Dance, and Unmanned Aerial Systems, with a focus on drones. This year, Rush-Henrietta created a new high school course offering called Holocaust and Genocide in Modern Society. It helps students develop an understanding of the historical causes and consequences related to the Holocaust and other acts of genocide of the modern era. They also learn about international law regarding the prevention of genocide and an ability to evaluate the effectiveness of the law to prevent further acts of genocide. In addition, Rush-Henrietta brought the Advanced Placement African American Studies course to our high school this year. These are all examples of a priority outlined in goal three of our strategic plan, Vision 2037. They specifically address our desire to promote inclusive learning opportunities.

R-H Works Industry Breakfast Builds Partnerships (Goal 4) 
It was an incredible scene this spring as Rush-Henrietta students spent a morning shoulder to shoulder with local business leaders. They shared important insights with one another at the district’s second annual R-H Works Industry Breakfast. Nearly 100 people attended the event, which brought business and community leaders together from throughout Monroe County. The goal was to generate thoughtful conversation about the specific skills and attributes essential to the workforce of the future. The highlight of the event for many business leaders was their discussions with students, many of whom are prepping for successful business careers. These included some of our award-winning DECA students. DECA is a business club with chapters across the nation. Public education plays a critical role in preparing students for success. Whether students plan to attend college, enlist in the military, or enter the workforce after graduation, we want students to have the skills needed to become the next generation of leaders. Our collective efforts will ensure that our students are not only prepared for the workforce but are also empowered to pursue their passions and dreams. Learn more by contacting Thomas Felton Jr., director of Career and Technical Education.

R-H True Value Tax Rate: Among the LOWEST in Monroe County

Tax rates are a means of comparing taxes between districts. The true value tax rate in the Rush-Henrietta Central School District is consistently among the lowest in Monroe County. Next year, Rush-Henrietta again will have one of the lowest tax rates in the county. Rates shown for 2024-2025. Monroe County School District Comparison* *Data from “2025 Facts and Figures” published by the Monroe County School Boards Association

Budget Notice

Revenues as a Percentage of Budget
Real Property Taxes and  Payments in Lieu of Taxes: 55.8%
State Education Aid: 36.8%
Sales Tax - County: 3.9%
Fund Balance and Reserves: 1.9%
Other Revenue Sources: 1.6%

2025-2026 Proposed Expenditures 
There are five expenditure categories in the 2025-2026 budget proposal, as outlined below, that support educational programs and school district operations.

Instruction: 52.7% — The instructional program is the largest category in the budget and is the focal point of our educational system. All services that provide, or directly affect, instruction to students are budgeted in this area. The following are included in this category: regular school program, special education, summer school and support services [school libraries, health, psychological and social work services, curriculum coordination and supervision, curriculum development, research and evaluation], BOCES instructional programs, student activities [interscholastic sports, intramurals, co-curricular activities] and required tuition payments for Rush-Henrietta students attending approved private and public school programs.

General Support: 10.1% — This part of the budget covers the areas that support the educational program through central administration, business operations, human resources, community relations, maintenance and repair of all district grounds and facilities, printing, mailing, district meetings, Board of Education and legal services.

Transportation: 6.5% — Includes bus transportation for more than 6,000 students to district, charter, parochial and private schools; BOCES centers for vocational and special education programs; field trips and athletic team trips.

Employee Benefits: 24.8% — Included in the employee benefits category are health insurance, retirement, social security, and the risk fund which includes unemployment insurance, worker’s compensation insurance, disability and life insurance.

Other: 5.9% — A small portion of the budget is for other expenditures that include capital funding (buildings and grounds reconstruction, repairs, and improvements to all district buildings and grounds), and community services.

2025-2026 Component Budget

Administrative Component 11.0% of Budget
The Administrative Component provides for overall general support and management activities, including business office operations, payroll, purchasing, general administration, personnel, legal and auditing services. Cost for administration and supervision of each of the District’s schools is also included in this component.

Program Component 76.0% of Budget
The Program Component provides funding for the instruction of and educational support services for the District’s students.  Programs are offered in four (4) primary buildings, two (2) intermediate buildings, two (2) junior high schools, and one (1) high school. Funds are also included in this component for transporting students.

Capital Component 13.0% of Budget
The Capital Component pays for maintaining buildings, for upkeep of property, and for electricity, gas heat, oil, water & sewer and telephone services and transfers to capital for buildings and grounds renovations. Funds are also included for debt service payments on capital projects and refund of taxes for claims against property assessments.

“Your voice and your vote are vital to the continued success of our schools.”

Dear Community Members, 

As I prepare to retire this June after 15 years of service to our school community, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude. It has been a sincere honor to work alongside such a dedicated community, where students come first and education is valued. Your support has made all the difference—not just for our schools, but for the future we are building together.

One of the most important responsibilities I’ve had each year is helping to develop the proposed school budget. It’s a careful balancing act to address the needs of our students and staff while staying mindful of the financial impact on taxpayers. This year, like many others, we continue to face challenges as we strive to support programs and services for students. We worked hard to present a budget that is both responsible and forward-looking. I’ve tried my best to be a good steward during my time here.

I strongly encourage every eligible voter in our district to participate in the upcoming budget vote Tuesday, May 20. Your voice and your vote are vital to the continued success of our schools. As I look ahead to retirement, I’m excited to spend more time with family and friends, enjoying a more relaxed pace of life. I hope to stay in touch with the many colleagues I have enjoyed working with over the years. We have an amazing, dedicated and caring staff at Rush-Henrietta and I will certainly miss being a part of this. I am confident that our students will continue to thrive with such a wonderful group of people supporting them. Thank you once again for your support and partnership over the years. It has truly been a privilege to serve this school community.

With appreciation,

Andy Whitmore
Assistant Superintendent for School Finance and Operations

Propositions

On May 20, 2025, eligible voters will vote on... 

PROPOSITION 1 – BUDGET PROPOSITION
SHALL THE FOLLOWING PROPOSITION BE ADOPTED? Shall the Board of Education of the Rush-Henrietta Central School District be authorized to expend the sum set forth in the estimate of amount of money required for school purposes during the fiscal year 2025-2026 in the total amount of $179,134,741 and to levy the necessary tax therefore?

PROPOSITION 2 – BUS EXPENDITURES
SHALL THE FOLLOWING PROPOSITION BE ADOPTED?
Resolved, that the Board of Education of the Rush-Henrietta Central School District be authorized to expend the sum of up to $4,600,000 to be funded from the 2016 Bus Purchase Reserve, the balance in existing Capital Fund bus purchase funds, interest earnings and the General Fund Transfer for the purchase and replacement of vehicles for the transportation of district students.

PROPOSITION 3 – CAPITAL RESERVE FUND
SHALL THE FOLLOWING PROPOSITION BE ADOPTED?
Shall the Board of Education of the Rush-Henrietta Central School District be authorized to establish a reserve fund for the purpose of construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation, repair and equipping of school buildings, and facilities and site improvements in accordance with Education Law Section 3651, to be designated as the “2025 Capital Reserve Fund,” over a probable term of 10 years, but to continue for its stated purpose until liquidated according to Education Law or until its funds are exhausted, the ultimate amount of such fund to be $25,000,000, the source of which shall be determined by the Board of Education including but not limited to any and all state aid and any and all federal and state funds available by grant or otherwise generated by projects for construction, renovation, reconstruction, rehabilitation or repair of school facilities, any identified General Fund balance, any identified surplus funds in previously established capital reserve funds, other reserve funds, and interest earnings 

Candidates Vie for Two Board of Education Seats

The school district is governed by a seven-member Board of Education elected by the eligible voters of the district. Members are volunteer public officials who serve without pay. As elected representatives of district residents, and as officers of the state of New York, board members must carry out duties required by the state Legislature, the Board of Regents, and the state Commissioner of Education. The board establishes policies for the operation of the district. This year, eligible voters in Rush-Henrietta will elect two candidates to the Board of Education. This information is provided by each candidate. A random drawing determined the ballot order of the candidates.

Suzanne Bennett

Name: Suzanne Bennett

Address: 199 Peakview Drive, Henrietta, NY 14467

Resident of the District: 21 years

Family: Spouse, Russell Bennett, and children, Erin Bennett, 23; Shannon Bennett, 20

Education: Alfred University, B.A., Biology; Nazareth Academy High School, Regents Diploma

Employment: Director of Recreation, Town of Rush Afterschool Program
Honors/Activities: Recipient of Assemblymember Harry Bronson’s 2025 Women of Distinction Award; Rush-Henrietta Board of Education Liaison to Winslow PTO, Burger Parent Group, R-H Sports Boosters, and Henrietta Youth Asset Team; Girl Scout leader, 13 years; Sunday School teacher at St. Marianne Cope Parish, seven years; adult leader for St. Marianne Cope Parish’s RHYM youth group, seven years.

Statement: For 20 years, I have nurtured and taught kids. My own children and others have been part of my home, employment, and volunteer activities. I offered nighttime child care in my home because a family needed it. I worked Child Watch at the YMCA, then moved to teaching preschool when children needed me home. At church, I taught first grade, then transitioned to youth group. I led a Girl Scout Troop for 13 years. Currently, I run an afterschool program. I interact with Rush-Henrietta students, families, and employees daily. I care deeply for them. Three years ago, R-H was in flux from COVID and needed a new superintendent. I wanted to help and was honored to be elected. With Dr. Mullen and Vision 2037, R-H is positioned to grow greater. I ask for your vote to the Board of Education to continue to serve this community.

Mai Abdullah

Name: Mai Abdullah

Address: 83 Churchview Lane, Pittsford, NY 14534

Resident of the District: 27 years

Family: Spouse, Mohamed Mekkielamin; Children, Danya, 24; Zeena, 19; and Amin, 17

Education: M.S., Environmental Health and Safety Management, Rochester Institute of Technology

Employment: Refugees Helping Refugees, Executive Director

Honors/Activities: Graduate of the Parent Leadership Training Institute; Leadership Rochester; YWCA Equity Through Development Program; Ed Trust NY Parent Lab; School Board Partners Fellow

Statement: I’m running for re-election to the board because I remain deeply committed to our students, families, and the longterm success of our district. I’ve proudly served as a board member for six-plus years, bringing a thoughtful, compassionate, and community-rooted perspective. I’ve lived in this district for 27 years and am a proud parent of graduates, with one more child about to graduate. I know firsthand the value of a strong public education system and the critical role schools play in shaping children’s futures. I’ve remained committed to growing as a board member, participating in professional development courses, workshops, and leadership opportunities to better serve our community and make informed, equitable decisions. I believe every child, regardless of ability, background, or zip code, deserves an excellent education, a safe and inclusive environment, and the opportunity to thrive. I bring experience, deep community ties, and a strong commitment to equity, transparency, and collaboration.

VOTER ELIGIBILITY
• You must be a United States citizen.
• You must be at least 18 years old by May 20, 2025.
• You must be a resident of the district at least 30 days prior to the vote.
• You do not have to own property in the district.

ABSENTEE OR EARLY BALLOTS AND ASL INTERPRETER
Qualified voters who would like an application for an absentee ballot or early voting ballot may request one from District Clerk Cheryl Castronovo at 359-5010. If either type of ballot is to be mailed to the voter, the completed application must be received by the district clerk no later than Tuesday, May 13. If the early mail or absentee ballot is to be handed to the voter in person at the Office of the District Clerk, the completed application must be received by the district clerk during regular office hours no later than Monday, May 19. The Office of the District Clerk is located in the Parker Administration Building, 2034 Lehigh Station Road, Henrietta. To be counted, both types of ballots need to be received by the district clerk no later than 5 p.m. Tuesday, May 20, via postal mail or the drop-box located at the administration building. If you need ASL interpreter service at the polling site for the May 20 vote, contact Ms. Castronovo by Wednesday, May 14, to request that an interpreter be present.

2025-2026 PROPOSED BUDGET
Fiscally Responsible, Equitable, Student-Centered

• Preserves instructional programs and services.
• Supports infrastructure with capital reserve planning.
• Ensures ongoing mental wellness initiatives.
• Aligns spending with district priorities.

NEW VOTING MACHINES
The Monroe County Board of Elections is requiring the use of new touchscreen voting machines. Learn more at rhnet.org/touchscreen before you vote.