The budgeting handbook for school districts in the State of New York was first published in 1955. This latest revision is designed to address a number of significant changes that have occurred recently in the area of school finance and management. It is also designed to provide a basis for the establishment and maintenance of budgetary systems in school districts that will comply with statutory requirements, yet will allow sufficient flexibility to accommodate the needs of the individual school district. The document, intended to provide general guidelines regarding budgetary practices rather than a detailed plan for budget development, is organized in the following chapters: (1) budget policy; (2) legal aspects; (3) a budget planning guide; (4) budget process; (5) budget implementation; (6) other funds; (7) reserves; (8) independent audit; (9) fund balance; and (10) automation of budgetary and accounting processes. Legal references to state laws are cited. The appendixes contain the following: (1) sample budget calendar and deadline dates; (2) sample budget development planning guide; (3) a description of board of education responsibility for determination of ordinary contingent expenses; and (4) a Formal Opinion of Counsel No. 213 on a number of issues. (MLF)