Chariho School Committee approves FY26 budget after debate over possible Hope Valley Elementary closure

The Chariho School Committee unanimously approved the superintendent's proposed fiscal year 2026 budget after extended debate about possible closure of Hope Valley Elementary School and related cost and program implications.

The committee voted to accept the budget as presented and retained the opportunity to amend it at two scheduled budget workshops: a follow-up on Feb. 25 and the next regular meeting on March 11, plus a districtwide hearing on March 4. Committee members stressed that approval at this meeting meant adopting an initial budget to be refined in coming weeks rather than locking in final line items.

Why it matters: The budget vote raises immediate local concerns because Hope Valley is projected to have dwindling enrollment and operating the school at current levels contributes to pocketbook and program pressures. Committee members, staff and parents pressed for detail on what savings would look like if…