Roxbury School District focuses on budget and declining enrollment challenges

The Roxbury Board of Education (BOE) meeting held on April 7, 2025, focused on pressing financial concerns and enrollment challenges facing the district. The meeting began with discussions about the current budget, with officials expressing cautious optimism about achieving a balanced budget for the upcoming year despite significant difficulties.

Board members acknowledged the challenges of the past year, noting that while they managed to maintain a balanced budget, the process was arduous. One member emphasized the importance of hope for positive changes in the future, reflecting a shared sentiment among the board regarding the need for improvement in the district's financial situation.

A key topic of discussion was the decline in student enrollment, which has seen a drop of over 500 students in the past decade. Board members raised questions about the reasons behind this trend, speculating whether it was due to families moving out of the area or opting for private schooling. Superintendent Dr. Sintore indicated plans to implement a survey at the end of the school year to better understand the reasons behind student departures, particularly focusing on transitions at critical educational stages.

The board also discussed potential incentives to attract families back to the district, including the introduction of free preschool programs, which could encourage new residents. Dr. Sintore highlighted the importance of capturing preschool-aged children already in the district to bolster future enrollment.

Financial strategies were a significant focus, with discussions on small incremental changes that have positively impacted the budget. These included reclassifying certain salaries, which contributed approximately $300,000 in savings. The board also addressed upcoming projects, such as the installation of solar panels, which are projected to save the district around $1.6 million over a 15-year period.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from board members to continue their efforts in managing the budget effectively, recognizing that the work is ongoing and requires persistent dedication. Overall, the discussions underscored the board's determination to navigate the financial landscape while addressing the critical issue of student enrollment in the Roxbury Township School District.