RSU 22 Proposes $14.3M Budget with Major Increases in Special Education Funding

The RSU 22 Budget Workshop held on May 14, 2025, revealed significant changes in the proposed budget for the upcoming school year, particularly in regular and special education funding. The budget proposal for regular instruction stands at $14,294,095.07, reflecting a 4.27% increase. This increase is attributed to the addition of an elementary teacher at Smith School and a math interventionist at Wagner, aimed at addressing fluctuating enrollment needs.

In a notable shift, the special education budget is set to rise by 13.67%, totaling $9,681,214.20. This increase is largely due to the addition of four new educational technicians to support incoming students, as well as a new special education teacher at Smith School. The district has successfully reduced the number of students needing intensive support from 11 to 4, showcasing effective resource management and staff dedication.

Other budget articles include a 2.36% increase for co-curricular and extracurricular activities, totaling $1,135,294.07, which covers wages for athletic personnel and facility rentals. Conversely, the student support budget is proposed at $3,807,230.30, a decrease of 2.53%, thanks to cost-saving measures in technology.

The meeting underscored the district's commitment to adapting its budget to meet student needs while managing resources effectively. As the budget progresses, adjustments will be made to reflect changes in technology costs, ensuring that the district remains responsive to both educational demands and fiscal responsibilities.