The Timberlane Regional School District Board voted to approve the FY27 default budget of $90,497,479 after extended discussion focused on special‑education cost drivers.

Business staff outlined the default documents and explained why contracted special‑education services have grown substantially since FY23. Key drivers cited were: (1) the district now funds multiple categorical contracts with outside providers (three NECC programs at roughly $225,000 each), (2) more intensive service needs within the existing identified student population (e.g., increased BCBA, speech/language, OT, PT services and a higher number of psychological evaluations), (3) the district’s continued LEA responsibility for students who attend charter or open‑enrollment schools, and (4) inflationary pressures on contracted services. Staff noted the district’s overall percentage of identified students (22%) is near the state average and that the trend of rising contracted costs is statewide, according to administrators who attended a Department of Education administrators’ conference.

Board members asked whether the increases reflected improved identification versus unmet needs in the past and whether salary and benefit lines might offset some contract expenses. Staff explained that some positions moved between budget lines in the current year and that certain benefit assumptions reflect contractual obligations and are therefore difficult to reduce in the default budget. Legal counsel confirmed the default budget calculations complied with statute and the district could still make changes before the final budget vote.

A motion to approve the FY27 default budget, made by Mark and seconded by Don, was called and carried during the meeting. Several board members acknowledged the special‑education explanation but urged continued scrutiny during upcoming budget committee deliberations.