Gateway school board expected to OK budget, grant money

Gateway school board is expected to adopt a 2025-26 general fund budget when directors meet May 27.

Property owners in the district will pay more an additional 1.2 mills in real estate taxes, from 24 mills to 25.2 mills, for next school year. That’s about $2,527.18 on each $100,000 of assessed value.

The $98.1 million spending plan for 2025-26 is a 3.5% increase over this year. The district plans to use $372,288 from its reserves to balance the budget.

The board also will vote to approve the final cafeteria budget, estimated at $2,676,377.

Board member Donna Burns stated that about $2 million is expected to come from federal funds.

“So where do we feel like we stand on still getting that $2 million from the federal government for the pending school year?” Burns asked.

Business Manager Mike Zourelias said the amount has not been confirmed.

“What I’ve been told is to prepare for the worst and hope for the best,” he said.

The board will also vote to accept a PA Smart Grant of $450,000. The grant seeks to enhance STEAM education for students in kindergarten through 12th grade, to create immersive labs in the middle and high schools and to collaborate with industry partners to develop career readiness skills.

“A lot of the money will go toward training (teachers),” said Superintendent Guy Rossi, who noted the programs will begin in the fall.

Board member John Ritter thanked Rossi for his research and writing of the grant.

“It was a complete team effort,” Rossi said. “We’re thrilled.”

Other business

• The next curriculum and equity meeting will be held at 6 p.m. on June 4 at the administration building, 9000 Gateway Campus Blvd., and is open to the public.

• Because of event conflicts, next month’s food distribution drive-thru will be held June 4 instead of June 11. Distribution is set for 6 - 7:30 p.m.

• Kindergarten registration is open for the 2025-26 school year. To register online, visit the district’s website under “parent resources.” For questions, contact the registration office at 412-373-5705.