School committee faces $3.6M budget crisis as potential closures loom before March deadline

The North Middlesex Regional School District (NMRSD) School Committee is facing critical decisions regarding potential school closures and budgetary challenges as they approach a March 1st deadline. During a recent meeting, committee members discussed the implications of a possible budget override and the urgency of finding solutions to a significant financial shortfall.

The committee is grappling with a $3.6 million budget deficit, which has raised concerns about the future of several schools, including Ashby and Spalding. If the proposed override does not pass by the deadline, the committee anticipates substantial reductions across the district. Closing schools could save approximately $900,000, but this figure represents only a fraction of the overall budget problem.

One committee member emphasized the need for clarity on the override's status before proceeding with any plans. They expressed a commitment to seeking answers and exploring all options to address the financial crisis. The discussion highlighted the urgency of the situation, as the committee must make informed decisions that will impact staffing and school operations.

As the March deadline approaches, the NMRSD School Committee is under pressure to find viable solutions to their budget challenges. The outcome of the override vote will be pivotal in determining the future of the district's schools and the educational resources available to students. The committee's next steps will be crucial in shaping the educational landscape for the community.