Auburn committee approves phased use of special-education stabilization funds for four outplaced students

The Auburn School Committee voted Jan. 21 to authorize a phased request to use federal special-education stabilization funds to cover the costs of four students who enrolled after the FY26 budget was prepared.

Missus Stanek, who presented the request, said the total estimated cost for the four students through the end of the school year would be $256,467.84 and that the district's federal stabilization balance was $605,775 as of Jan. 16. "The first request would be for the $85,489," she said, noting the committee planned a phased approach while the district awaits LEA-assignment decisions for two students that could shift financial responsibility.

Committee members asked how the differing placements affected costs; Stanek explained that private placements and specialized day programs can be several times more expensive than collaborative placements. She said the district has filed LEA-assignment requests with the Department of Education to determine which district is financially responsible for two of the students but that the district is currently responsible until those determinations are made.

A committee member moved to approve the request to use special-education stabilization funds "as outlined to support the needs of students who moved into district after the preparation of the FY26 budget." The motion was seconded and approved by voice vote. The chair said the request will next go to the town select board for final authorization.

The action is administrative and does not change students' placements; Stanek said any refunds or adjustments resulting from LEA determinations would be returned to the stabilization account and reduce future draws.