Citing higher expenses, Gary schools eye $82.3 million budget

Rising costs led to an increased $82.3 million 2026 proposed budget for the Gary Community School Corp.

Chief financial officer Linda Zaborowski told the school board last week during a public hearing that the budget is up from this year’s $76 million because of higher teacher and staff state retirements funds, higher health insurance costs, and pay increases for teachers because of a new state law.

She said if property taxes and the district’s state grant doesn’t cover the expenses, the district has cash reserves to make up the difference.

The district advertised a $36.2 million education fund, which covers teacher salaries and supplies; a $24.2 million operations fund for transportation, utilities, and non-certified salaries; an $11.3 million debt service fund; and a $10.5 million ref