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Medford School Committee votes to opt out of Massachusetts school choice for 2026–27
Summary
The committee voted 7–0 to opt Medford Public Schools out of the Commonwealth’s School Choice program for the 2026–27 school year, citing operational and financial capacity and a desire to prioritize seats for Medford residents. The district must report the decision to DESE in June.
The Medford School Committee voted unanimously to opt Medford Public Schools out of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ external school choice program for the 2026–27 school year.
Dr. Galooi presented the district’s recommendation, saying the decision reflects the district’s assessment of its operational and financial capacity and continues a historical local position. "If you remain in the program, out-of-district students would receive a state baseline tuition and admissions would depend on availability," Dr. Galooi said, noting that enrollment fluctuations across grade levels and buildings could result.
Committee members asked clarifying questions about the mechanics and consequences of opting out. Member Master Bony confirmed a "yes" vote would register as a decision to opt out; the recorded roll call showed seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative, and the motion carried.
The committee’s clerk will report the vote to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education in June, per state procedure. The district framed the vote as a way to maintain local control of resources and prioritize instructional capacity for Medford residents.
The committee took no additional action related to alternatives for managing out‑of‑district enrollment at this meeting.
