Stratford Board forwards $132.95 million school budget to mayor, flags special-education costs

The Stratford Board of Education voted unanimously to forward its fiscal-year 2025–26 itemized budget estimate of $132,953,937 to the mayor and town council, representing a $3,451,212 (2.66%) increase over the current budget, the board said.

Board leaders framed the request as focused on stability and contractual obligations, saying the proposed budget is structured to avoid position reductions and to allow the district to maintain current programs while a statewide special-education funding conversation continues. The board’s submission letter to the mayor emphasized ongoing reconciliation of high-cost special-education expenses with state excess cost-sharing grants and said the district will communicate monthly reconciliations to town officials.

In a read statement to the meeting, board leadership said the request was structured “net of the excess cost grant with high cost special-ed expenses to be communicated and reconciled monthly with the town,” and described the proposal as a fiscally responsible approach that prioritizes continuity during district restructuring.

The motion to accept and forward the budget was moved by Miss Bedell and seconded by Mister O’Brien. The board approved the motion by roll call; members recorded their votes in favor and the motion passed unanimously.

Ending: The budget packet will move to the mayor’s office and town council for review and hearings; the board said it will continue monthly reconciliation reporting tied to excess cost special-education claims.