Board approves 2026–27 budget amid questions on library books and classroom supplies

The Wallingford Board of Education approved the district's 2026–27 budget after discussion about library book allocations and classroom supply funding.

The operations committee reported a projected surplus and presented budget figures for 2026–27. After discussion and roll call, the budget passed with eight yes votes and one no. Board member Mrs. Reus voted no and said she would not approve the motion until she could review detailed expense breakdowns for library books and classroom supplies.

During discussion, staff explained that library book allocations are determined at the building level and vary by elementary, middle and high school needs; changes in the middle and high school lines reflected collection weeding, digital subscriptions and materials. District staff also described the districtwide supplies account (account 611) as a zerobased budget allocated by building and department. A district representative stated that "every classroom teacher gets approximately $300 for their classroom," and that specialists receive a different allocation based on caseload and function.

"I still would like to see the actual number . . . I am not going to be voting to move this forward," said Mrs. Reus, citing unanswered questions about the detailed line items.

The board recorded the roll call: Mr. Craig, Mr. Doring, Mrs. Door, Mrs. Paseretti, Dr. Reed, Mrs. Regan, Dr. Rosco and Mr. Vado voted yes; Mrs. Reus voted no. The motion carried.

The board also approved the food services budget for 2026–27 by roll call.

Next steps: staff will provide the requested line‑item breakdowns for library books and classroom supplies to board members who asked for them.