Brighton Central School District

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The 2026-27 Proposed Budget

The 2026-27 Proposed Budget requests authorization to increase spending 3.72% to $114,689,880. This would result in a tax levy increase of 3.98%, requiring a 60% passing rate with no penalty from the State or impact on STAR.

Brighton Central School District’s mission is to provide an exceptional educational experience while being responsible stewards of taxpayer
resources. The 2026–27 Proposed Budget balances these priorities in the face of continued cost pressures, changing student needs, and
limited revenue growth.

Addressing Rising Costs and Student Needs

This year’s budget is shaped by several financial challenges. Inflation impacting District operations and rising labor costs, including wages
and benefits, are increasing the District’s expenses at a pace that exceeds the growth in revenue. One unforeseen cost factor resulted from
changes in federal funding for retiree Medicare plans. This contributed to an initial $1 million budget gap. Local revenue growth remains
limited, largely due to no increase in the property tax growth factor and 2% as a cost inflation factor. The District is also responding to
increased student needs, such as specialized education services, increased enrollment of English as a New Language (ENL) students, required counseling, and support programs. Furthermore, the expiration of federal COVID relief funding has occurred while student needs remain elevated. The District’s initial budget gap of approximately $3.66 million required significant reductions in spending, increased reliance on use of reserves, and additional tax revenue to get to the 3.98% proposed tax levy increase.

The Budget Development Process

Budget development for the Brighton Central School District began early and was shaped by several key activities. The process included community forums and opportunities for feedback, as well as a careful review of staffing and programming. Forecasting mandated cost increases played an important role, along with evaluating efficiencies and long-term sustainability. Planning was conducted within the
framework of New York State’s property tax cap, ensuring fiscal responsibility and compliance. Throughout, the Board of Education and administration focused on maintaining academic excellence and student support, all while safeguarding the District’s long-term financial health.

Tax Levy and Inflation

Over the past several years, expenses have increased faster than revenues, driven largely by inflation, competitive wage adjustments,
and increases in minimum wage, health insurance, and mandated services. At the same time, Brighton’s property tax levy has increased less than many of these cost drivers, creating a structural gap. The proposed tax levy increase of 3.98% helps realign recurring revenues with recurring expenditures.

VOTE May 19, 2026 • 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Central Administration Building Gymnasium,
Door 4, 2035 Monroe Avenue
Accessible Entrance

Brighton Believes In Our Community
Brighton Believes In Our Future
Brighton Believes In Investing In Excellence

Summary of Expenditures

The proposed increase in spending of 3.72% is primarily driven by the inflationary costs associated with a personnel-driven industry –
salaries and benefits. It also reflects inflationary pressures on expenditures necessary for operations of our schools, mandated contracted
services required in response to student needs, and addition of staff to meet mandated services.

To offset the inflationary pressures, the District reduced spending by approximately $2.1 million from the initial draft budget. The District
modestly adjusted class sizes at the elementary level and at the high school, adjusted the teacher-teaming model at the middle school,
restructured academic intervention services at French Road, reduced certain teacher leadership positions, and will freeze unfilled support
positions vacated at the end of the current school year.

Summary of Proposed Spending by Object

Salaries and benefits represent 67% of the 2026-27 Proposed Budget. Salaries and wages are increasing due to contractual increases, increases in minimum wage, addition of staff to meet mandates, and reallocations to maintain relatively smaller class sizes. Benefits are increasing 6.52% primarily due to an increase in health insurance. 2026 premiums increased 9.9% for active employees and retiree
health care costs are forecasted to increase 117% due to changes in Medicare funding. BOCES increases are attributable
to inflationary pressures and an increase in mandated services. Other increases are attributable to inflationary pressures such as utility rate increases, liability insurance, contract transportation, and mandated student services.

Estimated Impact on Tax Bill

At the ballot, voters are considering the spending plan proposed by the District. However, voters naturally consider the impact that the spending plan will have on their property taxes. The proposed increase in the tax levy is 3.98%. Considering pending changes in State equalization rates, it is difficult to project what the resulting tax rate will be. However, absent any change in a home’s assessed value and assuming no growth in the tax base, the tax bill for a home assessed at $250,000 may increase $285 in the Town of Brighton and $326 in the Town of Pittsford.

Proposition 2 – 2026-27 Capital Improvement Project

The second proposition on the ballot seeks voter approval for the expenditure of $13,600,000 on a capital project. This initiative requires
authorization to withdraw $3,500,000 from the District Capital Reserve Fund. By utilizing reserve funds, allocating resources from the State’s
Smart Schools Bond Act, and applying State Building Aid, this project is structured to avoid any impact on current or future tax levies.

The scope of the proposed project encompasses both new initiatives and outstanding work from the 2024 capital project that require reauthorization of additional funding to ensure completion. The proposal also seeks an extension of construction contingency funds necessary to deliver the comprehensive scope of work approved by voters in February of 2024. A substantial portion of the requested contingency is expected to be allocated toward the mitigation of contaminated soil identified in the athletic fields behind Brighton High School.

TCMS

• Addition of Secure Entrance Vestibule – New Scope
• Security and Attendance Build Out on ground floor–New Scope
• Counseling Office Renovation – Incomplete Scope from 2024
• Skylight Replacement with LED Panels – New Scope
• Greenhouse Roof Replacement including New Gutters, Soffits, and Insulation – New Scope
• Re-engineer TCMS Parking Lot Entrance/Exit – New Scope
• Main Entrance Modifications: Sidewalk and Seat Walls – New Scope
• Canopy Demo – New Scope
• Generator Replacement – New Scope

FRES

• Kitchen Modernization – Incomplete Scope from 2024
• Boiler Room Renovations/Equipment Replacement – Incomplete Scope from 2024

BHS

• Language Classrooms Renovation – Incomplete Scope from 2024
• Generator Replacement – New Scope
• Athletic Field Scoreboards – Incomplete Scope

District

• Replenish Construction Contingency 2024

Advanced Placement Participation
Advanced Placement courses are offered in Art History, Biology, Calculus (AB and BC), Chemistry, Computer Science (A and Principles), English Language, English Literature, Environmental Science, European History, French, German, Human Geography, Music Theory, Physics (1, 2, and C), Psychology, Spanish, Statistics, Studio Art, U.S. Government, U.S. History, and World History. The District has focused on improving the number of students taking at least one AP course as a senior.

SAT
The SAT is a standardized test used by many colleges during the college admission process. In 2016, The College Board changed the format of the SAT exam to consolidate reading and writing into one section. The SAT Reasoning Test assesses students’ knowledge in the areas of reading and writing and math. Scores range from 200 to 800 on each section. Brighton students continually score above the New York State and national averages.

ACT
The ACT assesses high school students’ educational development and their ability to complete college-level work. The multiple-choice tests cover four skill areas: English, mathematics, reading, and science. The highest possible score on the test is 36. Brighton students continue
to score above the state and national averages.

Graduation Rate
The District has looked to improve its graduation rates among all subgroups. Those numbers have improved from 2013 to 2025.

Where is the Class of 2025?
91% of the students in the Class of 2025 planned to continue their education at 4 or 2-year colleges. 9% of Brighton students had other
plans including employment, military, and travel.

Points of Pride

Awards/Honors

• Ranked as the No. 2 District in Rochester by Niche.com in 2026.
• Niche ranked Brighton High School as the No. 2 high school in the Rochester area and Twelve Corners Middle School as the No. 3 middle school.
• Niche also ranked the District No. 1 for best places to teach in the Rochester area and No. 1 for best teachers in the Rochester area.
• BHS named a National Blue Ribbon School in 2018.
• TCMS re-designated as a School to Watch in 2024.
• Brighton High School was named a NYS Reward School for increased student achievement and closing gaps in student performance between subgroups of students in 2017.
• BHS was named one of Newsweek’s Top 500 STEM High Schools in its nationwide 2020 ranking. BHS was ranked No. 1 in the Rochester area, No. 10 in New York, and No. 117 in the country.
• Council Rock Primary School became the first primary school in the United States to receive an International Habits of Mind School of Excellence Award in 2019.

Access, Opportunity, and Social Emotional Learning

• Continued focus on strengthening access and opportunity for all students through practices that support belonging, engagement, and student wellbeing.
• Ongoing integration of social emotional learning into classroom instruction and school culture to ensure students feel safe, supported, and connected to their learning environments.
• Building level implementation of the District’s Inclusive Language Protocol, guiding respectful, identity-affirming communication with and about students, families, and staff.
• Use of inclusive language practices across classrooms, family communications, and school processes to promote equity, consistency, and a sense of belonging across the District.
• System-wide commitment to creating learning environments where all students are supported socially, emotionally, and academically, and have meaningful access to opportunities for success.

Extracurricular Activities

• There are over 100 clubs and a variety of academic competitions at the elementary, middle, and high schools.
• BHS’ DECA Club had 16 students win awards at the 2025 Regional Competition.
• The 2025 “Crossroads” BHS yearbook earned top honors in New York state from the Empire State Scholastic Press Association.
• BHS’ Science Olympiad team won Regionals in 2026.
• BHS’ “Galaxy” magazine received Superior Designation from the National Council of Teachers of English.

The six candidates for three seats are presented in the order that their names will appear on the ballot.

Dr. Susan Gasparino

Resident 19 years

Education: B.A., Anthropology, New York University; M.D., SUNY Downstate College of Medicine; MPH, University of Rochester

Profession/Employment: Pediatrician and Medical Director of Clinical and Community Programs at University of Rochester Center for Community Health & Prevention; Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at Golisano Children’s Hospital at Strong; Community Health Advisor to the Hoekelman Center for Health Beyond Medicine; Secondary academic appointment, Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester

Family: Husband, Joe, a primary care doctor in Brighton; children, Daniel (junior at BHS), Eliza (freshman at BHS), and Maggie (fifth grader at FRES)

School/Community Activities: Member, Brighton Board of Education, June 2020–present; Member, Brighton PTSA, 2014–present; Member, District Wide Safety Committee, 2020–present; Member, BCSD Interview Committee, 2020–present; Volunteer, Friends of the Arts in Brighton (FAB), 2024–present; BCSD Physical Education Curriculum Review Committee, September 2025–present; BCSD Wellness Committee, 2025–present; Member, Monroe County School Boards Association, 2020–present; Faculty Mentor for the Community Health and Advocacy Resident Education (CARE) Track at Golisano Children’s Hospital, 2022–present; Pediatric Faculty Intern Interview Committee, Golisano Children’s Hospital at Strong, 2023–present; Team Leader, Stroll for Strong Kids, 2026; BCSD Mental Health Program Evaluation Committee, 2025–2026; Girl Scout Troop Leader, Brighton Girl Scout Troop 60171, 2016–2025; Member, FRES School Based Equity Team, 2021–2025; Member, Monroe County School Boards Association Information Exchange Committee, 2020–2025; Volunteer Dance Instructor, Council Rock PE and Council Rock Play Day, 2018–2024; Weekly Fitness Friday Volunteer at CRPS hosting virtual Zumba classes for students throughout COVID-19 pandemic, March–July 2020; Volunteer, PTSA Book Fair, 2014–2022; Room Parent Volunteer, 2014–2018; Member, Twelve Corners Nursery School Board, 2012–2016; Chairwoman, Twelve Corners Nursery School Board, 2014–2016; Advertising Chair, Twelve Corners Nursery School Board, 2012–2014. 

Statement: I am honored to be seeking reelection. I love and value this community and believe that open communication and active participation strengthen us. I remain committed to thoughtful decision making, respectful dialogue, and keeping students at the center of every conversation. I’m a passionate champion for children’s well-being and a steadfast advocate for ensuring that every child experiences a deep and meaningful sense of belonging. During my time on district committees focused on student experience and family engagement, on mental health and district safety, and at larger tables representing BCSD at the state level, I work to create opportunities and environments where students feel safe, encouraged, and inspired. I am whole-heartedly committed to our schools; for students, as a partner for families, and as a supporter of teachers and staff who work to make our schools run and thrive. It would be an honor to continue to serve you.

Sarah Schlagman

Resident 14 years

Education: B.A., Psychology, Binghamton University; M.S.Ed., Childhood Special Education, Hunter College

Profession/Employment: Bookkeeper 

Family: Children, Etai (seventh grader at TCMS) and Avichai (fourth grader at FRES)

School/Community Activities: Served on the DEI Committee for two of the schools I worked in, as well as the Curriculum Mapping Committee at Crestwood Children’s Center from 2020–2021.

Statement: As both a parent of two current BCSD students and a former student myself, I have a deep personal connection to this district and its future. My experience as a special education teacher has given me firsthand insight into how district decisions have a profound impact on the success of both our students and our educators. In my current role as a bookkeeper, I bring a strong commitment to responsible budgeting and thoughtful financial stewardship to ensure resources are used effectively. Throughout my career in education, I approached every decision by considering what I would want for my own children. If elected, I will bring that same perspective to the school board by working to ensure every student is supported, every educator is valued, and every decision is made with care and accountability. I am committed to listening, collaborating, and making balanced decisions that strengthen our schools and community.

Dr. Robert Cole

Resident 20 years

Education: B.S., Neuroscience, University of Rochester; M.D., SUNY Health Science Center at Syracuse; MBA, Rochester Institute of Technology

Profession/Employment: Board Certified Family Physician, Rochester Regional Health; Chief Medical Officer, Clifton Springs Hospital and Clinic and Newark-Wayne Community Hospital

Family: Wife, Dr. Pamela Viggiani; children, Theodore (2020 BHS grad), Kalyn (2021 BHS grad), James (2023 BHS grad), and Feven Viggiani-Cole (BHS sophomore)

School/Community Activities: Den Leader, Cub Scouts, 2007–2009; Cubmaster, Cub Scouts, 2009–2012; Assistant Scoutmaster, Boy Scouts, 2012–2014; Coach/Assistant Coach, Brighton Little League, 2006–2009; Brighton Soccer Booster Club, 2016–2020; Brighton Field Hockey Booster Club, 2017–2021.

Statement: Above all else, if elected to our Brighton Board of Education, I’ll work tirelessly to protect and improve the educational experiences of our children. My name is Bob Cole. My wife, Pam Viggiani, and I have raised four children with the community’s support, as well as Brighton schools. Our older three have graduated (Theo, Kalyn, James). Our youngest, Feven, is a sophomore. I’m the product of a K–12 public school education and amazing teachers/staff. After college at U of R, medical school, and residency, I’ve worked locally as a family physician for 28 years. For the past six years, I’ve also been the Chief Medical Officer for two nearby rural hospitals. I was raised by parents and a community that modeled service. I want to give back. After decades in healthcare, I’ve gathered experiences that I think could help in our community’s educational discussions. I’d like to share my time, energy, and perspective. I hope you’ll consider my candidacy.

Carrielyn Bertino

Resident 40 years

Education: B.A., Psychology and Educational Studies with a certification in organizational management, Denison University; M.S., Education (dually certified in general education grades 1–6 and students with disabilities grades 1–6), Roberts Wesleyan University

Profession/Employment: Owner and operator of a small local business

Family: Husband, Greg; children, Ellie (class of 2031), Charlie (class of 2035), and Brodie (class of 2036)

School/Community Activities: Teaching Assistant, FRES, 2004–2005; third-grade tenured teacher, FRES, 2005–2016; member of numerous district-based committees, initiatives, and curriculum writing, 2004–2016; Founding Board Member, GiGi’s Playhouse Rochester, 2016–2021; PTSA FRES Building Co-Chair, 2021–2024; Member, Brighton Board of Education, 2024–present; member, Brighton Believes 5K Committee, 2023–present; member, Class of 2031 Activities Nights committee, 2024–present; member, Library Program review committee; member, Curriculum Council; member, Monroe County School Board Association Information Exchange Committee, 2024–present.

Statement: I am proud to seek reelection for a second term to the Board of Education. As a K–12 graduate of this district and a teacher here for over a decade, I bring a unique perspective both personally and professionally to this role. For the last two decades, I have contributed to committees, initiatives, pilots, and curriculum development. I have always been of the mindset that when you know better, you do better. I have a deep understanding of how our schools work and what our students and teachers need. As a small business owner, I understand the importance of fiscal responsibility and thoughtful decision-making. I value feedback, collaboration, and believe in bringing all voices to the table. I am passionate about ensuring the district meets the needs of all our students and families. With a deeply rooted love for this community, I would be grateful for the opportunity to continue serving.

Dr. Richard Kraude

Resident 8 years

Education: B.S., Chemistry, University of Montana; M.S., Chemistry, University of Oregon; Ph.D., Business Administration, Michigan State University

Profession/Employment: Professor of Operations and Supply Chain Management

Family: Wife, Dr. Sara Patrawala, an allergist at Rochester Regional Health; Children, Nouri (third grader at FRES) and Irfaan (kindergartener at CRPS)

School/Community Activities: Master Gardener, Cornell Cooperative Extension, 2022–2023.

Statement: Richard Kraude is a Professor of Operations and Supply Chain Management, specializing in research at the intersection of innovation, sustainability, and risk. He earned his Ph.D. from Michigan State University, M.S. from University of Oregon, and brings a strong analytical foundation to his work, combining empirical research with real-world application. Kraude is a passionate educator known for his engaging, student-centered teaching style that emphasizes participatory learning and practical insight. Beyond the classroom, he is driven by a curiosity for scientific discovery and a commitment to contributing to the broader body of knowledge. His work reflects a belief in continuous experimentation, growth, and the pursuit of meaningful impact through research, teaching, and innovation. He also trained as a Master Gardener for the Cornell Cooperative Extension and grows an array of fruits and vegetables at the Kraudawala nanofarm with his wife and two kids.

Jeffrey Sachs

Resident 7 years

Education: Bachelor's in Business Administration, Campbell University; Master's in Marketing, Roberts Wesleyan University

Profession/Employment: Executive Insurance Agent, Comparion Insurance Agency

Family: Wife, Elizabeth Eden, a FRES fifth-grade teacher; child, Era (CRPS second grader)

School/Community Activities: Coach, Brighton Girls Lacrosse First/Second Grade Team

Statement: I am interested in running for the Brighton School Board because I care deeply about the continued strength of our schools and community. Brighton has a proud tradition of educational excellence, and I am committed to helping preserve that standard while we navigate current budget challenges. Education has always been central to my life. My mother was a teacher, and my wife is a current teacher in the district, giving me a strong appreciation for the dedication and impact of educators. I value the diversity of our student body and believe every child deserves equal access to a high-quality education. I want to see continued efforts to ensure all students in our District can thrive and reach their full potential. I support thoughtful, transparent decision-making that balances fiscal responsibility with maintaining the high standards Brighton is known for. I am eager to listen, collaborate, and work toward solutions that support all students, staff, and families.

Annual Budget Hearing
Tuesday, May 12, 2026, 7 p.m., Central Administration Building Board Room, 2035 Monroe Ave. Televised on Cable channel 1303 and live
streamed at www.bcsd.org/livestream.

Meet the Candidates Night
PTSA Meet the Candidates Night at 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 13 in the Administration Building Board Room, 2035 Monroe Ave. It will be live
streamed at www.bcsd.org/livestream.

When and Where to Vote
Tuesday, May 19, 2026, 7 a.m. - 9 p.m., Central Administration Building, Gymnasium, Door 4, 2035 Monroe Ave. Accessible Entrance.

Voting Qualifications
• You must be a resident of the school district for at least 30 days immediately preceding the vote.
• You must be at least 18 years of age.
• You must be a citizen of the United States.
• You need one proof of residency such as a driver’s license or non-driver’s ID.
• You do not need to be registered with Monroe County Board of Elections.

Absentee Ballots
Absentee ballots are available to qualified school district voters. An application for a ballot must first be completed. Applications for absentee ballots must be received by the District on or prior to 4 p.m. May 12 if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or on or prior to 4 p.m. May 18 if the ballot is to be picked up by the voter. For information, call the office of the District Clerk at 242-5200 ext. 5502. Completed absentee ballots must be received by 5 p.m. on May 19, 2026.

Early Voting
Early mail voting ballots are available to qualified school district voters. An application for a ballot must first be completed. Applications for early mail voting ballots must be received by the District on or prior to 4 p.m. May 12 if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or on or prior to 4 p.m. May 18 if the ballot is to be picked up by the voter. For information, call the office of the District Clerk at 242-5200 ext. 5502. Completed early mail voting ballots must be received by 5 p.m. on May 19, 2026.

Additional Information
• Proposed budget details are available in the Brighton Memorial Library and all school offices, including the District Business Office, 2035 Monroe Ave. All budget documents are also posted online at bcsd.org/budget.
• Call Lou Alaimo, Deputy Superintendent, at 242-5200 ext. 5510 if you have budget questions.

Información en Español
Para obtener información del presupuesto en español, visite www.bcsd.org/espanol.