Fiscally Responsible

From 2017-2022, Inflation has increased the district budget by 18.77% while our enrollment has increased by 11.6%.
- Salaries, PSERS, Benefits, and Special Education expenses increased by $36,333,655.
- $11.8 mil of these increases are related mental health supports or in response to enrollment increases.
District has proposed 3.5% tax increase for next 3 years to achieve balanced budget.
To fund operational costs to achieve Full Day Kindergarten, the district has proposed 3.5% the following 3 years. This is discussed annually, and will not be determined until each year's budget is presented to the board.
- In February 2023, the Commonwealth Court ruled the current method of funding from the state was unconstitutional and ordered a revision to how the state contributes to individual districts. This should benefit Downingtown Area School District.
We implemented a new district Property Tax Rebate Programin 2023 to help those in our community most in need.

See the Whole Student

Added new positions to support mental health and to respond to enrollment increase.
Added Social Emotional Learning which teaches students about managing their emotions, cultivating healthy relationships, and fostering empathy.
- Social Emotional Learning reduces poor behavior that can disrupt learning.
- School climates are improved, which creates a better learning environment for all students.
Added more Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports which uses evidence and data-based programs, practices, and strategies to frame behavioral improvement relating to student growth in academic performance, safety, behavior, and establishing and maintaining positive school culture
Ensuring all academic deficiencies are addressed by adding a more robust summer program post-pandemic, adding more Multi-Tiered System of Supports, and addressing staffing equity.

Addressed enrollment issues in our High Schools, while creating space for Blended learning students to go for on line portions of curricula.
Space added to High Schools for Lunch & Learn program, allowing students to have access to teachers during the day for additional support or to meet other needs.
- This also will allow the district to move to a later start time for secondary students
Renovating and putting additions on two of our most crowded elementary schools.
Moving forward with the recommended 5th/6th grade concept for the district to achieve capacity in all of our elementary buildings for Full Day Kindergarten