District and city finance staff presented an overview of the Lynn Public Schools fiscal‑year 2026 budget, describing a large state funding increase but also significant cost pressures that narrow the funds available for new programs; the school committee voted to set a public hearing for June 12.

Kevin McHugh, the district’s school business administrator, said the governor’s proposed Chapter 70/Student Opportunity Act allocation to the district would rise by about $29.5 million next year but that rising city obligations for health insurance, pensions and other non‑school spending would consume a substantial portion. McHugh noted the city’s projected increases — a roughly 10.2% health‑insurance increase and a 15% pension increase for some employee groups — reduce the net funds available in the district’s operating budget.

McHugh highlighted special‑education out‑of‑district tuition costs as a major driver: the FY26 budget listed about $18.7 million in out‑of‑district special‑education tuitions while Chapter 70 funding for that line is about $6.3 million; circuit‑breaker reimbursements cover part of the remainder but the district projects a structural gap. He said transportation and technology needs also contributed to pressure on non‑salary lines.

Superintendent and cabinet leaders told the committee they sought to protect classroom teaching where possible: some nonunion and administrative positions were proposed for reduction, instructional coaches were reassigned to classroom teaching, and some department heads will teach classes to preserve frontline staffing. Administrators said they have preserved certain services and prioritized reductions in administrative roles rather than classroom teachers.

After discussion, the committee voted to place the FY26 budget on the calendar for a 30‑day public comment period and scheduled a public hearing for June 12. Roll‑call votes for the motion to set the hearing were recorded as unanimous in the transcript.