The most pressing topic at the meeting was the budget proposal for the 2026 school year, which aims to maintain existing services despite requiring a 4.96% increase over the prior year. This increase amounts to $1,762,630, bringing the total budget request to approximately $37 million. The budget is described as a “level service” budget, intending to preserve current programs and services. A significant portion of the budget is allocated to mandated education services, including Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), English Language Learner (ELL) services, and transportation for homeless students. These obligations restrict financial flexibility, with the mandated education budget projected to rise by $617,000 to $15.2 million.

The budget discussions highlighted the previous year’s deficit of $3.4 million, emphasizing the need for careful financial management. Jen, one of the speakers, outlined the efforts to manage costs, noting the impact of retirements and resignations on staffing plans, which could lead to savings by replacing positions at lower salary rates. The discussion also touched upon the challenges of securing reimbursements through the circuit breaker program, which helps subsidize out-of-district placements for special education. The community covers the first $50,000 of such costs, with the state subsidizing expenses beyond that threshold. The current reimbursement rate is around 75%, but advocacy efforts are underway to increase it to 85%.

Another aspect of the meeting was the reliance on federal funding to support various educational programs. Federal Special Education (SPED) entitlement grants, totaling around $800,000, currently fund 19.5 staff members. This funding is important for programs such as Early Childhood education, Title I reading and math interventionists, and Title III English Language Learners. The potential loss of this funding was underscored as a serious concern, as many of these programs would be unsustainable without federal support.

The meeting also addressed the utilization of school choice funds, which are projected at $2 million for FY 26. These funds play a role in offsetting operational costs and supporting instructional supplies and curriculum updates. The enrollment numbers for school choice students have slightly declined due to strategic cuts in open enrollment, with an emphasis on maintaining smaller class sizes.

The discussion transitioned to the technology department’s budget, which is characterized by variability due to unpredictable maintenance and repair needs. The budget increase is largely attributed to cybersecurity needs, which are essential for protecting the district’s network. The department manages network infrastructure, hardware, software, and library resources, with a focus on maintaining the one-to-one device initiative for students. School choice funds are critical in supporting the technology department.

Concerns about class sizes and staffing were also raised, particularly in the fifth grade, where class numbers reach up to 28 students. Unfunded requests for additional teaching positions and support staff were discussed. The absence of a dedicated library media specialist for the middle school was highlighted as a persistent unmet need, emphasizing the importance of media literacy and technology guidance for students.

The meeting concluded with a recommendation to approve the proposed budget, described as reflective of “level services.” While this budget proposal is subject to further review by the town manager and finance committee, the board’s vote is seen as a symbolic gesture, with final funding decisions to be made at the town meeting.