Dear Chenango Forks Community,

Read the Full May 2026 Budget Newsletter

This year, our work across Chenango Forks has been grounded in Habit 6: Synergize, working together to achieve more than we ever could alone. The progress we celebrate today is a direct result of the powerful collaboration between our students, staff, families, and community.

One of the most evident examples is with our capital improvements. We are excited to share that our new pool complex has reached substantial completion, with final Department of Health inspections underway and the hiring of a state required Aquatics Director in progress. These steps will allow us to expand programming for both our students and the community… So, stay tuned for upcoming community pool events!

You may have also noticed the enhancements around the new natatorium entrance, including a redesigned drive-up loop, which will include additional handicapped parking, and improved access to stadium facilities and restrooms.

After unprecedented success in the Fall and Winter Sports seasons, we proudly opened our new baseball and softball complex this spring, with our inaugural games already underway. Work continues on our multi-use grass field to support soccer and lacrosse, further expanding opportunities for our students and community.

Our commitment to student leadership, character, and social emotional wellness continues to thrive through our pre-K–12 work with “The Leader in Me” and the “7 Habits.” At Chenango Forks

Elementary, students are discovering their unique talents and learning that even our youngest Blue Devils can be leaders. Across classrooms, students are setting goals, building shared missions, and learning the power of working together. At the middle and high school levels, students are stepping into leadership roles through participating in “7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens” training and empowered student councils. Their impact is evident in initiatives like peer mentoring and peer homework help in study halls with the goal of increasing rates in completing student assignments and helping them to build healthy study skills.

This spirit of synergy was on full display as we were proudly selected to host this year’s New York State School Boards Association (NYSSBA) Joint Dinner, where our students from grades 3-12 showcased their talents, leadership, and pride in our district. Their ability to work together and represent Chenango Forks was truly inspiring!

We are also seeing the tangible results of our efforts in our classrooms. This year, we proudly recognized 11 students who earned the New York State Seal of Biliteracy, with many more pursuing the Seal of Civic Readiness. These achievements reflect both individual dedication and the strength of our learning community.

As we look ahead, we remain mindful of the financial challenges associated with being a “Save Harmless” district, while continuing to prioritize strong programming for our students. Our proposed 2.18% tax levy increase, which is at the allowable limit, enables us to maintain our current programmatic offerings while remaining fiscally responsible to our taxpayers. We invite you to review the details of our proposed budget on the attached school tax report card. The school budget vote will take place Tuesday, May 19, from noon to 8 p.m. in the high school auditorium. We encourage all community members to stay informed and participate.

At Chenango Forks, we know that when we work together with students, staff, families, and community partners, we create opportunities that would not be possible alone. That is the power of synergy, and it is what makes our school community so special.

Thank you for your continued support of Forks Nation as we are “A Community Where All Learners Grow and Excel”.

Sincerely,

Thomas Burkhardt,

Superintendent of Schools