Acton allocates $79.9M for 2026 school district assessment funding

Acton residents are set to see significant funding changes for their local schools following the recent Town Meeting held on May 5, 2025. The town has approved a budget of $79,959,269 to support the Acton-Boxborough Regional School District for the fiscal year 2026. This decision reflects a commitment to maintaining educational standards while managing costs effectively.

During the meeting, Vice Chairperson Rebecca Wilson presented the school district's budget, emphasizing the importance of quality education and the district's achievements. The budget includes a notable assessment of $3,498,892 for the Minuteman Regional School District, which provides vocational education to students from Acton and surrounding towns. This funding is crucial for supporting hands-on skill-based training and career preparation for students.

Superintendent Heidi Driscoll highlighted the district's focus on student success, reporting that 21 Acton graduates from the previous year have continued their education at two- and four-year colleges, while others have entered trade schools or apprenticeships. The budget for Minuteman reflects a 2.99% increase from the previous year, with a specific reduction in Acton's assessment by 2.83%, bringing it to approximately $3,400,098.

Community members expressed concerns regarding the per-pupil expenditure, which is significantly higher for vocational education compared to traditional schooling. Some residents questioned whether the costs were being managed effectively, given the unique demands of vocational training. Superintendent Driscoll responded by explaining the comprehensive nature of vocational programs, which require substantial resources for equipment and facilities.

The Finance Committee and Select Board both unanimously recommended the budget, indicating strong support for the proposed funding. As Acton moves forward with these financial commitments, the focus remains on ensuring that all students receive the quality education they deserve while balancing the town's fiscal responsibilities. The next steps will involve monitoring the implementation of the budget and its impact on student outcomes in the coming year.