Finance and Operations

Fiscal Year 2024 Budget

Budget Development Process

The $71,154,142 annual budget for the Salem Public Schools is a reflection of our values: equity, belonging and opportunity.  Together with city leaders and the school committee, school leaders and staff, parents, and community members, we create a budget that will support and promote student and staff success.  Throughout, we commit to being good stewards of the generous resources provided for our students.

The budget process begins in the fall, with the October 1 student enrollment data, which determines how much state aid will be available to the district next year.  In the fall and early winter, school leaders work with staff, students, and parent advisory groups to identify budget priorities for the next year, which is informed by the district’s strategic plan, and the lessons learned from work that is underway.  In early 2024, school leaders share their preliminary budget priorities with the Superintendent and School Committee.  Throughout winter and early spring, the city and the schools work together to finalize the priorities for the coming year, guided all along by our commitment to equity, belonging, and opportunity.  In the spring, the School Committee will review the priorities, hold a public hearing, approve and recommend a budget for the coming year.  The budget is finalized when the City Council approves in June.

The FY24 approved budget is available below.  Later in the fall, the budget calendar and timeline will be posted for the FY25 budget.