(Submitted by Donna Wiedberg)

Keeps Strong Focus on Students and Fiscal Responsibility 

SIDNEY -- Sidney Public Schools has approved its 2025–2026 budget with an emphasis on both student opportunity and taxpayer responsibility. The General Fund budget reflects a total increase of just over 3% compared to the previous year, with projected expenditures of $22.6 million.  

Board President Mike Palmer reminded the school board that “even though the state document provided shows 22 million, the district won’t even come close to that.” He also stated that “typically, on average, the district spends right around 16.5 million annually.”   

Palmer also asked the board of education to “keep in mind this funding  also includes special education, which makes up just over $350,000 of the increase.” 

Additionally,  as part of the 2025–2026 budget, Sidney Public Schools has lowered its levy by one cent. For taxpayers, this reduction represents approximately $10 in savings for every $100,000 of property valuation. 

Much of the increase comes from strategic investments in instructional programs, special education services, and building maintenance, while the district also carries forward a stronger cash reserve of $3.5 million — up $1.3 million from the previous year. 

The district continues to build reserves, as the Nebraska Department of Education has recommended that schools maintain at least three months of reserves to ensure effective and stable academic funding across the state. At the same time, the school district continues to battle inflation, potential legislative changes that may affect school funding, facility challenges with aging buildings and staff shortages. 

Superintendent Andrew Farber emphasized that the district is working to balance quality education with community priorities.

“As we finalize this year’s budget, our focus has remained on being responsive to the needs of every learner in our district while also being mindful of the impact on our taxpayers. After careful consideration, we have made the decision to lower our levy by one cent. For our community, this adjustment will equate to approximately $10.00 in savings for every $100,000 of property valuation. We believe this step reflects both our commitment to fiscal responsibility and our ongoing dedication to providing the best possible educational opportunities for all students” Farber said.

The increased budget ensures that Sidney Public Schools can continue to meet the academic and support needs of students across the district. Other areas, such as the depreciation fund, bond fund, and school nutrition fund, saw modest adjustments to keep facilities and programs operating smoothly, while the district works diligently to pay down debt on the bonds.

The commitment to financial discipline is paired with a determination to protect student services, prioritizing classroom instruction, special education, and building maintenance.