WEST FARGO — West Fargo Public Schools Board on Monday, Aug. 10, approved the preliminary 2026-2027 budget and associated mill levies, then set its annual budget hearing for September. As a result, the school district is focused on a "dollar-based budget," according to its budget proposal presented Monday. ADVERTISEMENTWest Fargo Public Schools was advised its restricted budget cap for the coming year is $62,853,366. West Fargo has an average per pupil cost of $13,288, while Fargo's is $16,349 and Bismarck's is $13,036. A mill levy is determined every year by dividing the dollar amount needed among political subdivisions by the total taxable value of the city.