2026 Budget Newsletter

May 1, 2026

Dear Community Resident:

Please make a plan to vote on the school budget from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, May 19.

Join me – and our entire community – as Rush-Henrietta asks for voter approval on its proposed 2026-2027 school budget. Two candidates will be elected to the Board of Education that day, as well. The vote will be held at the Transportation and Operations Center, 1133 Lehigh Station Road. Need a friendly reminder?

Please get your phone, open your calendar, and create an entry to vote Tuesday, May 19. Or, scan the QR code at the bottom of this page to add it!

As one of our neighbors, I hope you recognize that local schools are the heartbeat of a thriving community. Our 5,700 students excel in many ways – through their academic accomplishments, captivating artistic performances, and spirited participation in sports and extracurricular pursuits, among others.

Truthfully, the health of our schools is a reflection of the health of our broader community. We each have a vested interest in the success of our school system. We also share a collective commitment to our children – now and in the future.

I hope this year you have become familiar with Vision 2037, our district’s strategic plan. It is available for your review at www.rhnet.org/vision2037. You also may have taken part in our budget information sessions online or in person. This newsletter provides another opportunity to become informed. Should questions remain, please visit www.rhnet.org/budgettalk and we will respond to you.

The Board of Education adopted Rush-Henrietta’s proposed 2026-2027 budget in April. Aligned with the goals outlined in Vision 2037, we believe the proposal is student-centered, equitable, and fiscally responsible. The tax levy would increase by 2.17 percent, which is within limits set by the state. A homeowner with property assessed at $300,000 would pay an additional $82 in tax next year.

During the budget-planning process, we remained mindful of the tax impact on residents. If voters approve the budget, Rush-Henrietta’s projected tax rate again will be among the lowest in Monroe County. The final true value tax rate during the past 10 years ended up being lower than the proposed rate. The actual tax rate is established after town assessments are finalized. The school district plays no role in the changing of assessments.

One does not need to own property in the district to vote, but must reside here and be a U.S. citizen. A valid form of identification – such as a driver’s license or other government-issued photo ID, along with proof of residency – is suggested.

Our community has shown time and again that it values our school district and we are thankful for the positive impact you have made on thousands of young lives. Thank you for learning about our proposed budget. We’ll see you Tuesday, May 19!

Sincerely,
Scott M. Adair
President, Board of Education

What We Want to Accomplish: The Goals

Together with students, parents, staff, local industry, and the entire greater Rush-Henrietta 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 this page.

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

• Enhance Workforce Alignment and Readiness
• Strengthen Career Counseling and Post-Secondary Planning
• 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

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

Examples of Progress Against the Goals

New Science Curriculum Grades 6-8 (Goal 1)
Next year, Rush-Henrietta will welcome Amplify Science to grades 6-8. This phenomena-based science curriculum is focused on hands-on investigations, literacy-rich activities, and interactive digital tools. Units are anchored in real-world phenomena – puzzling events or situations that students can explain through
investigation, analysis, and evidence-based argumentation. The program integrates print and digital components, including simulations, readings, and data tools, allowing students to engage with scientific content. Lessons are designed around three dimensional learning – blending disciplinary core ideas, science
and engineering practices, and crosscutting concepts.

Enhancing Career and Technical Education (Goal 2)
Rush-Henrietta is building stronger relationships with business owners, government leaders, and local organizations by hosting events such as Future Ready Region and the R-H Works Industry Breakfast. At the same time, our district continues to expand the academic pathways it offers to students. We are excited to share that the state recently approved our Pre-Engineering pathway! We are also pleased to announce that R-H’s new Unmanned Aerial Systems (drone) courses will begin in September 2026.

Expanding Mental Wellness Services (Goal 3)
For five years, Rush-Henrietta has continued to expand its commitment to supporting student mental wellness. In 2021, we established a partnership with the University of Rochester Medical Center to host district-based mental-health clinics at Crane and Sherman elementary schools. R-H then added clinics
at Fyle, Leary, Vollmer, and Winslow. This year, we opened new clinics at Burger and Roth junior high schools. These on-site clinics help schools and professionals address issues such as behavioral and parenting concerns; adjustment issues during times of family transition and stress; and the treatment of anxiety and depression. The Senior High School will come online next year, too! We appreciate our partnership with URMC.

Student Summit Reflects on Changing World (Goal 4)
Dozens of R-H students gathered this winter during the Student Leadership Summit to focus on digital identity, empathy, and leadership in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Our students selected the Olympics as a unifying theme for the day and enjoyed meeting special guest, Lara Dallman-Weiss, two-time Olympic sailor. They engaged in interactive experiences to help them reflect on their digital identity, explore how online behavior shapes community culture, and define what relational leadership looks like when no one is watching. Students reflected on their personal roles as digital creators, consumers, and leaders; explored empathy in online spaces; discussed how digital habits shape broader school culture; and designed strategies to bolster connection among students, teachers, and district leadership.

How has it been almost 80 years?

On November 14, 1946, Rush and Henrietta residents voted overwhelmingly to combine many small schools into a single entity known as the Rush-Henrietta Central School District. A primary goal was to provide hundreds of children from throughout the community with more efficient and cost-effective educational opportunities. With your support, we continue to meet those important objectives for 5,700 students from Henrietta, Rush, West Brighton, and Pittsford.

In the early days, the district consisted of a patchwork of local buildings, including what is now the Rush Post Office. The post-World War II baby boom necessitated more robust infrastructure. What began as a modest effort to streamline rural education has become a beacon of suburban academic excellence. A flurry of construction in the 1950s and 1960s ensued to accommodate thousands of families flocking to the area, and the district began to develop its well-deserved reputation as a welcoming community dedicated to student success. Please help us celebrate!

We Need Your Help to Tell Our Story

As we approach our 80th anniversary next school year, we understand that the true history of Rush-Henrietta isn’t found only in board minutes or old blueprints. It lives in your memories! To make this celebration truly special, we are asking for the community’s help in several ways:

• Alumni Stories: We want to hear from people who attended our schools during every decade. If you have some perspective to share, please let us know
• Archive Donations: Do you have jerseys, graduation programs, or photos of the early days? A vintage diary or yearbook to pass along? We seek memorabilia to display and share online.
• Volunteer Committees: We are looking for creative and enthusiastic residents to help with a few special ideas we are considering. Your support will make the difference!

Want to help Rush-Henrietta celebrate? Contact us at rhnet.org/80years!

Rush-Henrietta’s success is a direct reflection of the partnership between our schools and the community we serve. This milestone belongs to the generations of alumni who walked these halls; the district employees who have dedicated their careers to them; and the residents who have supported us every step of the way. We look forward to celebrating the past 80 years together!

As we prepare to celebrate the district’s 80th anniversary, R-H proudly announces the founding of the Rush-Henrietta Athletics Hall of Fame. Without question, our school district boasts a long, rich, and storied sports history. With that in mind, it is time to recognize some of the outstanding people who have made Rush-Henrietta such a special place to learn and play. The inaugural class of inductees will be honored during homecoming weekend, October 1-3, 2026.

It is easy for legendary individual trailblazers, outstanding coaches, powerhouse teams, and others who helped Rush-Henrietta athletics thrive to slowly fade into the background. By establishing this Hall of
Fame, we are preserving these special accomplishments and memories.

The new Rush-Henrietta Athletics Hall of Fame is seeking nominations for the inaugural class. There are four categories to consider nominating potential inductees:

• ATHLETES - Athletes of significance must have graduated at least 10 years ago.
• TEAMS - Teams of significance must have played at least 10 years ago.
• COACHES - Coaches must have made significant and extraordinary contributions to the Rush-Henrietta athletic program.
• HONOREES - Honorees must have made a significant impact on Rush-Henrietta athletics and/or on sectional, regional, national, international, or professional athletes.

The Rush-Henrietta Athletics Hall of Fame isn’t just a look back—it’s a look forward! The Hall will provide today’s students with historical proof of what is possible as they pursue their own dreams. When students see a plaque for a coach who led with integrity, or an athlete whose commitment to excellence is remembered even today, they will learn more about a Royal Comet who helped pave the way for them.

The Rush-Henrietta Athletics Hall of Fame is evidence that greatness doesn’t simply happen somewhere else. It takes place right here at R-H! Let’s ensure that the stories of our greatest Royal Comets are never
forgotten. To learn more and make a nomination today, please visit www.rhnet.org/athleticshall.

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 2025-2026.

*Data from “2026 Facts and Figures” published by the Monroe County School Boards Association

2026-2027 Projected Revenue Statement

2026-2027 Proposed Expenditures

There are five expenditure categories in the 2026-2027 budget proposal, as outlined below, that support educational programs and school district operations.

• Instruction: 54.6% — 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: 10.2% — 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: 6.6% — 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: 23.0% — Included in the employee benefits category are health insurance, retirement, social security, and the risk fund which includes unemployment insurance, worker’s compensation insurance, and disability and life insurance.
• Other: 5.6% — 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.

 

2026-2027 Component Budget

Administrative Component: 10.8% 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: 74.4% 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 primary buildings, two intermediate buildings, two junior high schools, and one high school. Funds are also included in this component for transporting students.

 

 

 

 

 

Capital Component: 14.8% of Budget
The Capital Component pays for maintaining buildings, for upkeep of property, and for electricity, gas heat, oil, water, sewer, 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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

*While salaries increase noticeably in the proposed budget, benefits are reduced. That largely is the result of many employees moving to a different health insurance plan as part of new collective bargaining agreements.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

*While salaries increase noticeably in the proposed budget, benefits are reduced. That largely is the result of many employees moving to a different health insurance plan as part of new collective bargaining agreements.

Academics: Rush-Henrietta Senior High School was named to the 2025 Advanced Placement Program Honor Roll! This recognizes schools with AP programs that deliver results and broaden student participation. Schools earning recognition are committed to increasing college-going culture, providing opportunities to earn college credit, and maximizing college readiness.

Athletics: From incredible individual accomplishments to tremendous team victories, our Royal Comets are excelling in sports competition. We are proud that so many students are performing well in the classroom, too! Many have earned Scholar-Athlete recognition from the state this year. Thank you for your support of our students! Pictured: Girls Varsity Soccer.

Dedicated Employees: Rush-Henrietta continues to look for ways to attract and retain caring, skilled employees. Here, Superintendent Mullen is shown honoring Ms. Pam Quinlan for her outstanding efforts as a teacher who leads drama and music. Whether performing a solo or being a member of a high-performing group, young musicians are thriving in Rush-Henrietta!

Successful Futures: R-H strives to help each student develop individual skills and talents that will support them throughout life. Whether pursuing post-secondary education, seeking full-time employment, or joining the U.S. Armed Forces, we provide paths for students to succeed. R-H’s Webster Learning Center students are shown touring Finger Lakes Workplace Development Center.

On May 19, 2026, 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 2026-2027 in the total amount of $187,000,000 and to levy the necessary tax therefore?

PROPOSITION 2 – BUS EXPENDITURES: 
SHALL THE FOLLOWING PROPOSITION BE ADOPTED?
Shall the Board of Education of the Rush-Henrietta Central School District be authorized to expend the sum of up to $2,700,000 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?

VOTE TUESDAY, MAY 19, 2026 • 6 A.M. to 9 P.M.
Rush-Henrietta Central School District | Transportation and Operations Center | 1133 Lehigh Station Road

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.

Dre Collins

RESIDENT OF THE DISTRICT: 29 years | FAMILY: N/A
EDUCATION: Rush-Henrietta Central School District, Advanced Regents Diploma
EMPLOYMENT: Self-employed; Business owner/CEO/Plumber
HONORS/ACTIVITIES: I am a Rush-Henrietta alumnus, Class of 2014. At church, I help teenagers develop good
character and refine their unique skills. My business is providing good quality homes to families. I have obtained the qualifications to take the test to obtain the Master Plumber License.
STATEMENT: As a business owner, plumber, and homeowner in this community, I offer a practical, solutions-focused perspective grounded in community values. The skills I have developed—problem-solving, accountability, and working directly with people—have been shaped by this community, and I am committed to giving back. I will use that experience to make thoughtful decisions that support students, respect taxpayers, and strengthen our schools. Every student deserves the chance to grow, succeed, and feel supported. I am committed to helping make that a reality in our district.

Shiloh Arthmann

RESIDENT OF THE DISTRICT: 49 years | FAMILY: Children: Tyler (24), Ally (18), Xander (16), Tory (15)
EDUCATION: Rush-Henrietta Class of 1994, Regents Diploma; University of Maryland - Global Campus; working toward bachelor’s degree in business administration/management
EMPLOYMENT: Lead Implementation, Human Resources, Paylocity Inc.
HONORS/ACTIVITIES: School Board Partners Fellow - Cohort 8; Serving third year of first term on Rush-Henrietta Board of Education; R-H Falcons Travel Board Secretary and Parent Liaison
STATEMENT: I am currently serving the third year of my first term on the Rush-Henrietta Board of Education and am seeking re-election. I am a 1994 graduate of R-H and was born and raised in Henrietta, giving me a deep, personal connection to our community. As a single mom of four who loves this district, I am committed to helping R-H continue to grow as a destination district for families. Professionally, I serve as a team lead in HR Implementation, bringing strong leadership, collaboration, and decision-making skills to the board. I was recently selected as one of 25 participants out of more than 100 applicants nationwide for the National School Board Partners Fellowship. I am only the second person from our district to receive this honor. I initially ran to be a strong voice for students, families, and staff, and I look forward to continuing that work with dedication and transparency.

Laura Borate

RESIDENT OF THE DISTRICT: 19 years | FAMILY: Spouse, Brian; Children, Kayleigh (20) and William (17)
EDUCATION: Monroe Community College, associate’s degree in Human Services
EMPLOYMENT: Self-employed (Child & Family Care)
HONORS/ACTIVITIES: Rush-Henrietta Board Member, 2023 to present; Member, Crane Elementary PTO (2012-
2017); Board Secretary, Crane Elementary PTO (2014-2017); began Crane’s Penguin Patch program; Chairperson, Roth
Junior High Parent Group (2017-2023) - in this capacity, helped support the school’s Staff Appreciation efforts;
Representative, District Parent Advisory Council for Crane, Sherman, and Roth (2014-2021); 2nd Vice-Chair, District Parent Advisory Council (2017-2020); and involved with Rush-Henrietta superintendent search and transition, as well as district reconfiguration.
STATEMENT: I am an invested parent who has volunteered at both the building and district levels. I have been honored to serve on the school board the past three years. Our district has developed strategic plans to help our community grow and flourish. If given the opportunity to serve another three years, I am excited to see the progress continue. Rush-Henrietta deserves to be known as a “destination district” for students, employees and community members. I am going to continue to be an approachable advocate for our district. I am a proud member of an amazing community and hope to share that positivity with everyone. I would be so grateful for your vote.

Rush-Henrietta Central School District
2034 Lehigh Station Road
Henrietta, New York 14467
(585) 359-5000
www.rhnet.org

2025-2026 Board of Education
Scott M. Adair, President
Mai Abdullah, Vice President
Shiloh Arthmann
Suzanne Bennett
Laura P. Borate
Kimberly DeLardge
Rachel Sherman

Superintendent of Schools
Dr. Barbara A. Mullen

Published by the Office of Community Relations

PLEASE VOTE! 

VOTER ELIGIBILITY

• You must be a United States citizen.
• You must be at least 18 years old by May 19, 2026.
• 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 or ccastronovo(at)rhnet.org. 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 12. 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 18. 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 19, 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 19 vote, contact Ms. Castronovo by Wednesday, May 13, to request that an interpreter be present.

2026-2027 PROPOSED BUDGET
Fiscally Responsible, Equitable, Student-Centered

• Preserves instructional programs and services
• Ensures ongoing mental wellness initiatives
• Makes R-H more competitive in the labor market
• Aligns spending with district priorities

TOUCHSCREEN VOTING MACHINES
The Monroe County Board of Elections require the use of touchscreen voting machines. Learn more at rhnet.org/touchscreen before you vote.

All Voting Will Be At 1133 Lehigh Station Road

LOCATION
R-H Transportation and Operations Center
1133 Lehigh Station Road

TUESDAY, MAY 19, 2026
6 A.M. TO 9 P.M.
CHOOSE TWO CANDIDATES FOR BOARD OF EDUCATION
VOTE ON TWO PROPOSITIONS:
PROPOSITION NO. 1 Budget Proposition $187,000,000
PROPOSITION NO. 2 Bus Expenditures
Proposition 2 will NOT affect the tax rate.