Michael Bailey & Sarah Gwiazdowski Elected to Board of Education
On Tuesday, May 20, the Duanesburg Central School District community approved the district’s $20,686,000 budget proposal for the 2025-26 school year by a vote of 361-213, a margin of 63%.
The plan represents a spending increase of 6.39% ($1,243,000) and called for a 3.20% tax levy increase ($287,125), which was at the District’s maximum allowable levy under state law, requiring just a simple majority (more than 50%) to pass.
“On behalf of the Duanesburg Central School District, I extend my deepest gratitude to our residents for their dedication to education and for recognizing the importance of investing in our schools,” Superintendent of Schools Kimberly Ross said. “This budget ensures that we can continue providing high-quality programs, fostering innovation, and creating a safe and enriching learning environment for every student.”
“The passage of this budget allows us to move forward with additional classrooms in UPK and kindergarten, supporting a true middle school model, and strengthening opportunities for all learners. It reflects the collaborative spirit of our district and the belief that a strong public education system benefits our entire community,” she added.
“Thank you for your trust, engagement, and unwavering support. I look forward to continuing our work together to uphold the excellence and progress that define our schools.”
Board of Education
The community also voted between three candidates to fill two open seats on the Board of Education. Candidates included incumbents Sarah Gwiazdowski and Avis Sanchez, and first-time candidate Michael Bailey. Michael Bailey received 342 votes. Sarah Gwiazdowski received 282 votes. Avis Sanchez received 265 votes. There were 27 write-ins. Bailey and Gwiazdowski were elected and will start a three-year board term at the start of the 2025-2026 school year, on July 1, 2025.
Establishing a Repair Reserve Fund – Approved
A measure to establish a Repair Reserve Fund at a maximum amount of $300,000 was approved by a vote of 391-183, a 68% margin. The reserve fund will allow for repairs of facilities or equipment that do not regularly occur annually or are unexpected.
Bus Purchases – Approved
The community also approved a proposition allowing the district to purchase two school buses at a cost not to exceed $230,000 by a vote of 389-188, a 67% margin. One bus will be a 30-passenger, gas-powered vehicle, and the other will be a small, four-wheel-drive SUV. Both vehicles will replace high-mileage buses used for out-of-district, CTE, and UPK runs.
Upcoming Board of Education Meeting
Wednesday, May 28: The Duanesburg Central School District invites all community members to a special evening of recognition and welcome on Wednesday, May 28 in Joe Bena Hall.
- 5:30 p.m. – The Board of Education will hold a special meeting, immediately convening into executive session.
- 6:30 p.m. – The community celebration begins as we honor the tenure of eight dedicated educators and warmly welcome the new principal of Duanesburg Elementary School.
Following the executive session, the Board will officially appoint the new principal, who will be present to meet and engage with community members. Cookies and refreshments will be provided.