YORK COUNTY — The York County School Board approved its fiscal year 2026 operating budget on May 19.
The $201 million dollar budget represents an increase of $8.4 million — 4.4%. The schools received a $4.3 million increase in state funding from Gov. Youngkin’s state budget, a $500,000 estimated increase in local funding, and identified $313,000 in savings.
According to the division, 80% of the operating budget has been allocated to compensation. The budget includes a cost-of-living adjustment and a one-step raise for all licensed and non-licensed staff. The division also created an additional 20 school-based positions to ensure students can receive support for academic and social development.
Money is also going towards textbooks, adaptive physical education resources, as well as increased support for the division’s Summer Academy.
“As a school division, we understand our role in shaping the future of York County,” Superintendent of York County Schools Victor Shandor stated. “Our schools are a key reason why families choose to live and stay in this community. Continued investment in our students, staff, and schools is not just a budget decision — it’s a commitment to the long-term success of York County.”
The budget passed 4-1, with District Five representative Lynda Fairman the sole vote against.
“I do not support this budget, I do not support forcing taxpayers to consistently pay more, that’s irresponsible. Throwing money at schools does not guarantee excellence and it keeps going up and up by millions every year. We have some wonderful results, but constantly hanging that Damocles sword over taxpayers’ heads, saying, ‘if you don’t give us more money, we can’t guarantee you the good schools.’ I don’t buy that argument, so I am against this budget,” Fairman stated.
Other members of the disagreed with Fairman, showing their support for the operating budget.
“When you are talking about spending money, we haven’t had a tax increase in York County in nine years. That’s not us, our Board of Supervisors decided that. It wasn’t just for the schools, it was for public safety, it was for a lot of stuff. Not to mention the fact that we are still in the bottom third in the state for per-pupil spending and yet we have the best results. I would say that we just keep doing what we’re doing,” Mark Shafer, District One representative, said.
To view the May 19 meeting, visit the YCSD YouTube page.