The Board analyzed the figures, noting how little of the overall budget is discretionary. Salaries, benefits, and contracted services alone account for the full increase in expenditures. Mandated employer contributions to pensions remain a key driver. Other Board comments touched on the tuition program - the District has curtailed its tuition program for regular education students at a time when enrollment is increasing.
After review and discussion the Board expressed a consensus around adopting a budget somewhat below the tax cap without further program reductions. A revised budget will be presented at the March meeting.
The proposed budget addresses enrollment needs in several ways:
- An additional section has been added at grade two, bringing the estimated class size down to 21.0.
- Program improvements at grade 5 -- more science, technology, and skills support - make it possible to for teachers to meet with their classes in half-groups three times a cycle.
- An additional psychologist will address pre-school needs and a rising number of referrals.
- Productivity shifts will increase the number of English and math sections at the Middle School
- The rotation of High School electives will reduce the number of under-enrolled courses in English and social studies.
