Public voices: North Andover parents, teachers protest proposed FY26 cuts as superintendent outlines $68.2 million scenario

At its March meeting the North Andover School Committee heard dozens of residents and staff oppose proposed reductions that would be required under a $68.2 million FY26 scenario presented by Superintendent Lathrop.

The meeting featured more than a dozen public commenters, including teachers, parents and the president of the North Andover Teachers Association, who urged the committee to adopt a level-services budget or provide a clearer multi-year plan instead of the cuts under consideration.

Many speakers singled out possible school closures and staff reductions. Tony Delmonico, a teacher, told the committee, “We are not, have not committed enough to our schools,” and criticized the committee for moving toward a budget level he said would further undermine classroom support. Shannon Gateley, a parent, asked, “What is the plan if the debt exclusion doesn't pass?” and pressed for clearer answers about which services — especially special education — could be cut.

Superintendent Lathrop walked the committee through a set of potential reductions intended to reach the $68.2 million target. She described the figures on a slide deck and said the $68.2 million…