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Board briefed on 8.71% health insurance increase and moves to cover AP test costs; MEF grants awarded to Elliott Elementary
Summary
District staff told the board health insurance premiums are projected to rise 8.71% next year; the board agreed to move funds in the high school budget to cover AP exam costs. Two MEF grants to Elliott Elementary totaling $7,500 were also announced.
The board received an update on budget factors that will shape next year’s spending. Officials told the board that the district’s health insurance premium is projected to increase by 8.71% for the coming year — a figure described as manageable in the current budget context but higher than in recent years.
During the chair’s report, the board noted the high school budget had been reviewed closely and "we've asked that some money be moved around to cover all AP test costs," a redistribution intended to remove the direct cost burden for students taking Advanced Placement exams.
The chair also announced two Maine Education Foundation (MEF) grants awarded to Elliott Elementary School: a $3,800 grant to support a "Trolley Back in Time" history program (contracted with a local trolley provider) and a $3,700 grant for kindergarten nature‑based outdoor learning to be supported by consultant Ann Styers. Board members thanked grant writers and staff and noted the grants will support in‑building programming rather than district general funds.
Board members encouraged community attendance at the district budget meeting on May 11 and discussed logistic details for ballot clerk training and volunteer recruitment to support that election process.
No formal budget vote took place at this meeting; the board used the workshop outcomes and the insurance figure to frame upcoming budget decisions to be taken at the May budget meeting.
