The Methuen School Committee faced a challenging budgetary decision during their recent meeting on May 21, 2025, as they grappled with the implications of a compromised budget that many members described as detrimental to the school system. The committee ultimately voted to adopt a budget of $137,172,120 for the fiscal year 2026, which includes significant chargebacks totaling $23,471,071.

The discussions highlighted the ongoing financial strain on local schools, with committee members expressing deep concerns about the impact of reduced funding from the state. Member Willett emphasized the dire situation, noting that the budget cuts over the past two years have exceeded $12 million, largely due to inflation. He pointed out that other districts, such as Lowell and North Andover, are also facing severe budget reductions and layoffs, underscoring a broader trend affecting public education in the region.

Despite the difficult circumstances, the committee proceeded with a vote on the budget, which passed narrowly with a 4-3 vote. Members expressed their dissatisfaction with the budget, with Willett stating, “This is a miserable vote,” reflecting the sentiment that the approved budget does not meet the needs of the schools or the community. The mayor, who also voted against the budget, reiterated the importance of presenting a balanced budget, indicating a commitment to fiscal responsibility.

In addition to the budget vote, the committee discussed the school choice program for the upcoming year, which was also approved. This program allows families to choose schools outside their designated districts, providing more options for students and parents.

As the Methuen School Committee moves forward, the challenges of funding and resource allocation remain at the forefront of their agenda. The decisions made during this meeting will have lasting implications for the quality of education and the overall well-being of students in the Methuen community. The committee's commitment to addressing these issues will be crucial as they navigate the complexities of school funding in the coming years.