The West Chester Area School District (WCASD) School Board of Directors approved a preliminary general fund budget of $334,091,704 for the 2025-26 school year. This reflects an $11.5 million, or 3.57 percent, increase over the 2024-25 budget, supporting the district’s ongoing commitment to high-quality learning, responsible fiscal management, and student-centered growth.

The largest portion of the budget, staff salaries and benefits totaling more than $217 million, represents targeted investments in the student learning experience, a core district priority. Staffing additions in key instructional and support areas reflect WCASD’s 2025-2028 comprehensive plan’s goal of providing students with access to caring, committed adults and tailored supports that result in an increase in their engagement, agency, and achievement. The budget includes more than $1 million in new staffing to help personalize instruction, expand access to student services, and enhance wellness efforts.

“This preliminary budget ensures we can continue providing the essential programs, experiences, and supports that help all students grow and succeed,” said WCASD Superintendent Dr. David Christopher. “Sustaining these opportunities is key to delivering on our mission every day.”

The budget also includes increased funding for student programming beyond core academics, which aligns with the district’s goal to increase students’ sense of belonging and build deeper engagement across all grade levels.

Other budget drivers include mandated increases such as:

• A $2.76 million increase in state-mandated pension expenses (PSERS)
• A $1.1 million increase in transportation and contracted services
• A $1 million increase in instructional books, supplies, and materials that support curriculum updates and student assessment tools

While costs continue to rise, the district was able to maintain a balanced budget through careful planning and revenue analysis. The administration is actively working to identify alternative revenue sources to reduce the need for future tax increases, part of a broader commitment to sustainable financial operations.

To balance the 2025-26 budget, the district has proposed a 3.4 percent tax increase for Chester County residents and a 3.5 percent increase for those in Delaware County. Both are below the state’s Act 1 index of 4.0 percent. The difference in county tax rates is based on annual market value adjustments determined by the PA State Equalization Board, not by the district itself.

The final 2025-26 budget is scheduled to be presented for approval at the May 28, 2025, School Board meeting.