On Tuesday, April 15, the JPS Board of Education approved the district’s proposal for a $115,876,898 budget for the 2025-26 school year that includes a 0% increase to the tax levy. Voters will also be asked to support the creation of a $10 million dollar capital reserve fund that will help the district plan for future capital projects and funding a maintenance repair reserve fund that will allow the district to allocate and use money for unexpected or necessary repairs without impacting the annual budget.

“This proposed budget continues to place a strong focus on student learning and maintains critical positions that support our students’ social and emotional wellbeing,” said Dr. Kevin Whitaker, JPS Superintendent. “It expands our investment in literacy and math, ensures dedicated instructional coaching in every building, and continues our focus on safety through both district-funded improvements and our long-term capital project. With upgrades to playgrounds, emergency systems, and transportation, this budget reflects our ongoing commitment to providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for every student in our community.”

Two candidates are also on the ballot to fill two open seats on the district’s board of education — two three-year terms that will begin in July 2025 and end in June 2028.

Frank Galeazzo, an incumbent, is seeking his third term on the Board of Education. He currently serves on the board’s Policy and Finance committees. Mr. Galeazzo and his wife, Elizabeth, have been City of Jamestown residents for 20 years and have two children: Bradley, a 2022 JHS graduate, and Ashlyn, a senior at JHS. Mr. Galeazzo is a graduate of SUNY Alfred State and is currently the Information Services Manager at the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities. He was previously involved in local and regional PTA organizations.

Joseph Pawelski

“I am seeking re-election to my seat on the Jamestown School Board to continue to share my leadership skills and to steer the district in the positive direction it’s already heading,” said Galeazzo. “I also want to ensure the students of Jamestown Public Schools have the opportunities to excel in everything they do by providing the best education and programs possible.”

Joseph Pawelski, an incumbent, is seeking his fourth term on the Board of Education and was elected vice president of the board in 2024. Prior to his last three terms, Mr. Pawelski served for 20 years, the last five years as president, retiring from the Board in 2008. He lives in Jamestown with his wife, Casey, and is the father of two children, Tom and Carrie, who are proud graduates of Jamestown Public Schools. Carrie is the Band Director at Jefferson Middle School. Mr. Pawelski is retired after 40-plus years as a financial advisor, consultant and planner.

“Being involved with the education and the process of educating our children in Jamestown has always been one of my top priorities,” said Pawelski. “We are facing many challenges with that process and I want to continue to push forward and continue to improve the education of the students of Jamestown.”

Voters can cast their vote at any of the three polling sites: Jefferson (195 Martin Road), Lincoln (301 Front Street), and Washington (159 Buffalo Street) schools. The polls will be open from noon to 9 p.m. on May 20.

Registered voters who are not able to vote in person on Election Day may be eligible to vote by absentee ballot. Reasons for voting by absentee ballot include: Absence from county on election day; temporary illness or physical disability; permanent illness or physical disability; duties related to primary care of one or more individuals who are ill or physically disabled; resident or patient of Veterans Health Administration Hospital or detention in jail/prison, awaiting trial, awaiting action by a grand jury, or in prison for conviction of a crime or offense which was not a felony. Early Voting is also available. Applications for both Absentee or Early Voting can be obtained through the District Clerk, in person, by mail, or by phone. (District Offices, 197 Martin Road, Jamestown, NY, 716-483-4420). Those wishing to receive the ballot by mail must apply by May 13. Absentee ballots must be received in person, or by mail, by 5 p.m. on May 20.

JHS senior Kate Kathman laughs with Love School second graders on Read Across America Day.

To be eligible to vote in the JPS Budget/Board of Education Election, an individual must be: at least 18 years of age, a United States citizen, a resident of the Jamestown City School District for at least 30 days prior to May 20, and a registered voter. If you have a question regarding voter eligibility, please contact the District Clerk at (716) 483-4420.

For more information on the 2025-26 school budget and the board member election, visit jpsny.org/vote

The Jamestown volleyball team battles at the net during a match at McElrath Gymnasium.

Allison MacCallum delivers a first-place performance in the JHS Poetry Out Loud competition.

A Love School Pre-K student shares a joyful moment with a staff member during a school-wide celebration.

Persell Middle School principal Traci Thompson steps in for a science demonstration with fifth grade students.

Washington Middle School students take to the stage in the drama club’s performance of “Cinderella: Youth Edition.”

Lincoln students practice mindfulness in the classroom as part of a daily social-emotional learning routine.

A Jamestown High School student reads an original children’s story aloud to UPK students during a cross-age literacy activity.

A Fletcher Elementary School student smiles on the playground.

JHS students participate in the dodgeball tournament during the 2025 Battle of the Classes.

Members of the JHS Concert Band rehearse together in preparation for an upcoming performance.

Chase Bonta breaks away during a JHS football game.

Jamestown High School seniors proudly show off their college choices on Decision Day.