A notable inclusion in the budget is the expansion of the Autistic Program at Hazelwood, necessitating the addition of a teacher, a teacher assistant, and an aide. Addressing a lack in Universal prekindergarten programs, the budget plans for six teacher assistants for kindergarten classes to better manage the demands of the curriculum and student behaviors.

To support growing class sizes, one teacher each for grade four and five will be added at Woodland, along with a guidance counselor to cater to the unique needs of intermediate-level students. Woodland, combined with another school, has student numbers exceeding those of the high school yet lacks a designated guidance counselor. The budget also answers a pressing need for a grade eight resource room teacher based on identified student requirements.

A full-time World Language teacher will be appointed at the high school due to the necessity of the current teacher split between two schools. In response to the end of Ark funding, the budget includes a school counselor who is also a licensed clinical social worker to address student social and emotional health. Furthermore, the budget allocates for the employment of a Board Certified Behavioral Analyst and three Registered Behavior Technicians, which is more cost-effective than contracting these services.

The operational side of the budget sees the addition of a maintenance person, two administrative assistants, and a larger allocation for school security.

Capital projects highlighted in the budget presentation include fire alarm system replacements at Parker and Watchung schools, soffit repairs at a primary school, and a high school generator upgrade, necessary for district-wide internet and phone service continuity.

The budget discards fees for advanced proficiency exams and all activity fees, likely in an effort to ensure equitable access to these programs.

An estimated tax impact for the average homeowner was detailed, with a monthly increase of $6.56, totaling an annual addition of $78.69.

During the public comment section of the meeting, no comments or questions were raised regarding the budget. The motion to approve the budget passed with one dissenting vote from a board member.