Beverly Schools budget emphasizes class size reduction and staffing adjustments for 2023

The recent School Committee meeting held by Beverly Public Schools on April 30, 2025, focused on critical budgetary and staffing decisions that will shape the educational landscape for the upcoming year. The discussions highlighted the importance of class size guidelines, staffing adjustments, and program realignments, all aimed at enhancing student support and educational outcomes.

A key topic was the district's class size guidelines, which have been in place since 2006. The committee reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining smaller class sizes, particularly in the early grades. Current targets aim for 22 students in kindergarten through grade 2 and 25 students in grades 3 through 8. The district reported that it is currently well below these targets, indicating a favorable student-to-teacher ratio that supports individualized attention.

Staffing levels were also a significant focus, with the district experiencing notable increases in personnel over the past few years, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the availability of ESSER funding. The budget for the upcoming year includes adjustments to staffing based on enrollment trends, with a focus on reallocating resources rather than eliminating positions. The district anticipates 13 retirements and is strategically managing vacancies to ensure that student needs are met without compromising staff support.

The meeting also addressed the restructuring of central office roles following retirements, aiming to create efficiencies while maintaining effective leadership. The consolidation of responsibilities among four key positions is expected to streamline operations and enhance the district's responsiveness to educational needs.

Another significant initiative discussed was the evolution of the BPS Community Connections program, formerly known as City Connects. The program is shifting towards a more localized approach, focusing on the unique needs of Beverly students and families. This includes a commitment to improving attendance, fostering a sense of belonging, and enhancing access to resources through partnerships with local organizations.

The committee emphasized the importance of aligning academic interventions with the district's goals, particularly through the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). This approach aims to provide targeted support to students based on data-driven assessments, ensuring that interventions are effectively tailored to individual needs.

In conclusion, the Beverly Public Schools' budget discussions reflect a proactive approach to addressing the challenges of the current educational environment. By prioritizing smaller class sizes, strategic staffing adjustments, and community-centered programs, the district aims to enhance the educational experience for all students. As the budget process continues, the committee remains committed to transparency and collaboration with stakeholders to ensure that the needs of the community are met effectively.