Interim superintendent says budget is balanced, details $75 million special-education center and equity priorities; board names restoration priorities

BRIDGEPORT, Conn. — Interim Superintendent Dr. Avery told the Bridgeport Board of Education at a July 28 special meeting that eight months of work have yielded a balanced budget for fiscal 2026, new state funding and an approved plan for a district special-education center funded by the state.

Dr. Avery opened the presentation by reviewing organizational changes, community engagement and a “theory of action” guiding district work since his appointment in November. He said the district moved from a projected multi‑million‑dollar deficit into a balanced fiscal 2026 outlook after cost reductions and reallocations, and that a state forensic audit found “no evidence of fraud.”

The superintendent described several significant new funding items. He said the district has secured about $19,400,000 in new state funding for fiscal 2026, including roughly $2,600,000 in excess-cost special-education reimbursement, a $5,800,000 seed grant to expand special-education programs and about $11,800,000 in additional ECS and Alliance grant funds. He also announced a $75,000,000 state capital award to develop a district special-education center intended to serve about 260 students and, he said, reduce out-of-district placements over time.

Why it matters: The combination of operating relief, targeted special-education investments and a planned new facility could change where and how Bridgeport serves students with significant needs, reduce transportation and placement costs, and shift the district’s instructional and facilities strategy.

Key details from the presentation

- Budget and audit: Dr. Avery said fiscal-year 2025 projections once showed a multi‑million‑dollar deficit; after personnel adjustments and program reviews…