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West Haven schools present $95 million FY26 request; special education, transportation and benefits drive increases
Summary
Superintendent Neil Cavallaro presented a $95 million proposed Board of Education operating budget for FY2026, citing a teacher contract, rising special-education tuitions, transportation costs and health benefits as principal drivers.
The West Haven Board of Education presented a proposed $95 million operating budget for fiscal year 2025-26 during the March 10 council meeting, Superintendent Neil Cavallaro told the City Council and audience members.
Cavallaro said about 53% of the board—s proposed spending is for salaries, with benefits and special-education tuition making up much of the remainder. He said the district negotiated a teacher contract that raises payroll costs and used an increase in the state—s Alliance Grant to offset a portion of teacher raises in the FY26 proposal.
"When we come to you to get a teacher contract approved, I'm not coming here so you can tell me how great my teachers are. I'm coming here to tell you this is what I negotiated. Can you afford to pay it?" Cavallaro said, summarizing the board—s approach to bargaining and the…
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