Methuen School Committee weighs raising class sizes, staff cuts and long-term reforms to close FY27 gap

Methuen, Mass. — The Methuen School Committee met Thursday night for a budget workshop that centered on possible cuts and structural changes to close a projected FY27 funding gap, including a proposal to raise class sizes to 30, eliminate staff positions and pursue longer-term reforms.

Acting Superintendent presented the administration’s revised budget on April 30, saying central office had identified roughly $2,000,000 in additional reductions and “a net reduction of $2,300,000 from our original proposed budget.” The administration’s proposals include eliminating roughly 20 positions (including program assistants and several special-education roles) while adding a smaller set of positions, such as a CTE supervisor, a radio/TV broadcasting teacher and two float nurses.

A written public comment read at the start of the meeting amplified community concern over cuts. Kristen Maxwell, whose letter was read by the vice chair, wrote: “The problem isn't just the numbers, it's the culture,” and urged the…