The Parsippany Board of Education (BOE) has adopted its budget for the 2026-27 school year, which includes a 7% tax increase largely attributed to a staggering 45% rise in healthcare costs, amounting to over $13 million. Superintendent Karen A. Chase noted that while the district utilized the State's allowable health care adjustment to exceed the 2% tax levy cap, it still fell short of covering the total healthcare cost increase. To mitigate financial pressure, the district transitioned to a self-funded health benefits model, allowing for more direct cost management while maintaining employee healthcare levels. Additionally, the budget reflects strategic changes, such as moving five educators to the elementary level and managing retirements and non-renewals. The primary focus of the budget is to preserve academic programs, support student activities, and ensure infrastructure improvements without raising fees for sports and programs. Chase emphasized that every line of the budget was carefully examined to balance immediate needs with long-term sustainability.