School District Approves Budget Exceeding State Funding Requirements by $7.4M

The MSAD 52 Board of Directors convened on May 9, 2025, to discuss critical funding matters for public education from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. The meeting focused on the district's financial appropriations and assessments as mandated by the Essential Programs and Services Funding Act.

The board began by outlining the total appropriations for each municipality within the district. The town of Greene was allocated $8,922,523.95, Leeds received $5,698,565.10, and Turner was appropriated $14,423,585.26. The total appropriated across all municipalities amounted to $29,044,674.31, with a total amount raised of $8,911,795. This funding is essential for meeting the minimum requirements set by state law to secure full state funding.

Following this, the board addressed Article 13, which proposed raising additional local funds of $7,413,066.88. This amount exceeds the state's essential programs and services allocation model, reflecting the district's need to cover costs not fully funded by the state. These costs include advanced placement courses, extracurricular activities, technology coordination, maintenance operations, and special education funding.

A motion was made to approve the additional local funds, which was seconded and discussed. After deliberation, the board proceeded to a vote, resulting in a tally of 43 in favor and 6 against, with 10 void ballots. Article 13 was thus approved.

The meeting concluded with a brief overview of Article 14, which summarized the proposed school budget and sought authorization for the school board to expand. The discussions highlighted the district's ongoing efforts to secure adequate funding for educational programs and address financial challenges faced by the schools. The board's decisions will play a crucial role in shaping the educational landscape for the upcoming year.