Westwood School Committee adopts $58.76 million FY2026 budget; raises extended‑day, building‑use and Prodigy fees

The Westwood School Committee voted unanimously on Feb. 13 to adopt a $58,761,682 operating budget for fiscal year 2026 and a $1,140,000 capital plan, and approved several fee increases intended to shore up self‑sustaining programs.

The committee approved an operating budget that includes three substantive midcycle revisions the superintendent presented: adding a fourth preschool classroom for 2025–26, an increase in contracted special‑education services, and additional phased funding for wellness and Mandarin language staffing. At the meeting the committee also approved an increase to extended‑day tuition, new building‑use rates that include a custodial charge, and higher Prodigy program tuition and instructor pay.

The changes come after the administration adjusted the January proposal in response to committee feedback and public comment. “So in FY ’26, an increase to $8 an hour as the base tuition rate,” said Leymah, a district staff member who presented fee recommendations, calling the initial jump “a substantial increase” but part of a plan to stabilize program finances. The committee then approved the…