Simsbury School Board outlines special education property purchase and program expansion plan

During the Simsbury Board of Finance meeting on February 18, 2025, significant discussions centered around the proposed budget for special education and the development of a new educational facility aimed at enhancing support for students with special needs. The meeting highlighted a multi-phase plan that seeks to improve educational outcomes while managing costs effectively.

The proposed budget for fiscal year 2026 includes a gross allocation of approximately $19 million for special education. A key component of this budget is the acquisition of a property for educational purposes, which is projected to cost around $1.5 million. This property will be converted into an educational facility, leading to an estimated loss of $14,000 in tax revenue for the town, as it will be removed from the tax rolls.

The plan is structured in three phases. Phase 1 focuses on establishing the facility and its operational costs, which include utilities and supplies estimated at $85,000. Phase 2 aims to create two classrooms, potentially serving a mix of high school and middle school students, with a budget that anticipates a cost-neutral outcome after accounting for savings in the operating budget. The anticipated savings from the operating budget could reach approximately $438,000, although this figure is contingent on the specific needs of the students enrolled.

Phase 3 envisions expanding the program to full capacity, accommodating 20 to 25 students, including up to 10 tuition-paying students. This phase is projected to generate significant savings, with an estimated cost containment of about $515,000. The discussions emphasized the importance of providing local educational options for students who currently travel long distances for specialized services.

The financial analysis presented during the meeting underscored the long-term benefits of investing in this program. If the property is not purchased, the district faces substantial costs for replacing aging modular classrooms, estimated at $1.6 million. In contrast, the proposed program is expected to yield a return on investment within five years, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing educational services while being fiscally responsible.

The meeting concluded with a strong endorsement of the program's potential, drawing parallels to the successful Farmington Valley Transition Academy, which has effectively served students with transition needs for over two decades. The board expressed optimism that the new initiative could replicate this success, ultimately benefiting students and the community at large.