SOUTH PORTLAND — Voters approved a $46 million school budget Tuesday, 379-231.

Of the near 19,000 registered voters, 610—approximately 3 percent—cast ballots.

The school budget represents a 3.5 percent increase from this year. It includes nearly $3.7 million for student and staff support, more than $4.1 million for facilities maintenance, almost $2.4 million for school administration, more than $319,000 for career and technical education, and nearly $5 million for debt service and other commitments.

“I’m pleased that once again our community has shown it’s support for education,” said Superintendent of Schools Suzanne Godin.

“The turnout is disappointing but clearly an indication that a referendum process is unnecessary in South Portland. Our community supports our elected officials making decisions about various city budgets,” Godin said.