The Plainview-Old Bethpage School District Board of Education recently announced that the proposed budget for the 2009-10 school year will maintain programs and preserve class sizes while limiting the impact on taxpayers. The proposed budget of $127,895,982 represents a budget increase of 2.13 percent - the lowest increase for the district in 15 years. The tax levy increase, at 2.16 percent, is also the lowest in the same 15-year period.

The district is aware and sensitive to the current economic climate. "We are proud to present the taxpayers with a budget that is committed to continuing the level of excellence of education within the district. At the same time, we are being mindful and sensitive to the economic pressure many of these homeowners feel," said Ryan Ruf, assistant superintendent for business.

The proposed budget continues to implement a wide variety of educational enhancements, such as the instructional technology program, and capital improvements that will benefit the entire school community. The district is maintaining the commitment to capital projects, as part of the 2008-2009 budget, to preserve the community's investment.

The budget vote and Board election will take place on Tuesday, May 19 from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Polling locations are Jamaica Avenue, Plainview-Old Bethpage Middle School and Old Bethpage Elementary School.