Sharon School Committee holds public hearing on FY26 budget; parents and staff urge preserving teachers, IAs and programs

The Sharon School Committee on Feb. 12 held a public hearing on the proposed fiscal year 2026 operating budget and heard more than two hours of public comment urging the committee to protect classroom teachers, instructional assistants and programs serving marginalized students.

Superintendent Dr. Botello reviewed budget context and options. He said his initial proposed budget would have been a 5.46% increase but the town’s current priorities target is 2.76 percent; to meet that target the district would need roughly $1,459,787.70 in reductions. He described the process and listed possible reductions that would meet the 2.76% target, including cutting one first-grade section at East or Heights and one second-grade section at East (which could raise class sizes into the low-to-mid 20s), reductions to some specialist time (art, library, music), potential reconfiguration of elementary world language, and restructuring at central office to reduce administrative costs.

Why it matters: the cuts discussed would change classroom sizes and course offerings across grade levels and the high school. Dr. Botello said the administration is aiming to preserve mandated services and special-education staffing where possible and will present…