Town manager's budget offers 0.86 percent more; district warns of up to 15 job cuts

What happened

On March 19, 2026 the interim superintendent told the committee the district had asked the town for a 4 percent operating increase and $1.3 million in capital work, while the town manager's recommended budget contained a 0.86 percent operating increase and $200,000 in capital, plus $500,000 for technology and curriculum materials. She said the district might have to consider staffing reductions affecting up to 15 positions, cuts to basic classroom supplies such as paper, and deferral of building projects that could put the district out of step with state school-building requirements.

Why it matters to families

Fifteen positions is a large share of a small district's staff. Class sizes, student support and the state building money all hang on how the gap is closed.

The evidence

The March 19, 2026 approved minutes record the district's 4 percent and $1.3 million request, the town manager's 0.86 percent and $200,000 recommendation, and the list of possible consequences including staffing reductions of up to 15 positions and reductions in student instructional supplies.

The source