Superintendent highlights budget forum, special‑education funding timing and school food advisory committee

Superintendent Dr. Gasper used his report to thank parents, staff and community partners for participation in recent budget forums and to highlight several district initiatives and reminders.

Budget and state funding: Dr. Gasper thanked attendees at a budget forum at Smalley and said he will continue community conversations about district budget needs. He cautioned that Governor Lamont announced $54,000,000 in support for school districts’ special‑education costs but that, according to the governor’s announcement, the funding is designated for the 2026–27 school year and does not specify additional support for the coming school year.

School food and community engagement: Dr. Gasper announced the start of a School Nutrition Advisory Committee led by Ms. Murphy and encouraged community members who have raised concerns about school food on social media to join the committee to have direct input. He noted Ed Rising students provided babysitting at the budget forum to make participation easier for parents.

Facilities and personnel highlights: Dr. Gasper noted the home‑school renovation project is ahead of schedule; he referenced a topping‑off ceremony in which several people signed a beam. The superintendent also pointed to personnel items on the agenda: three positions in shortage areas were being filled (two special‑education positions and one world‑language position).

Why it matters: timing of state special‑education funding affects district budget planning; the newly formed nutrition advisory committee is the district’s formal channel for community input on school meals; ongoing hiring in shortage areas affects classroom staffing and services.

Next steps: Dr. Gasper encouraged stakeholders to follow district communications and to participate in advisory and budget forums; he and staff will continue outreach as budget planning progresses.