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Stonington board reviews 5.82% school budget increase, asks for more detail
Summary
The Stonington Board of Education reviewed a proposed 5.82% increase for the 2026 school budget that would add instructional and support positions; board members asked for town-share data and a pie chart on spending and were told additional detail will be provided at the next meeting.
The Stonington Board of Education reviewed a proposed 5.82% increase to the Stonington School District budget at a Jan. 29, 2026, meeting in Mystic.
Alisha Stripling, Director of Finance and Personnel, presented the proposal and said the plan includes decreases in 57 individual budget lines while adding positions and staffing support, including an additional math interventionist, certified speech and English-learner staffing, classroom teachers and both certified and non-certified pre-K staff. Administrative staff provided further detail about special-education needs and requested staffing at each grade level that contributed to the increase.
Chair Farouk Rajab asked how large the education portion is relative to the town budget; Stripling said she will provide the percentage at the next Board meeting. Rajab also questioned a line showing a decrease in health-insurance costs. Mary Anne Butler, Superintendent of Schools, and Stripling said an interim Director of Guidance is in place until the district fills the permanent position.
Board members raised facilities and enrollment concerns. Kevin Agnello asked whether the proposed budget anticipates unexpected needs at WVSS and whether a portable classroom might be required if middle-school enrollment grows; a staff member, Mr. Carroll, said funds had been allocated for potential WVSS issues and Mr. Parkinson explained enrollment trends and the resulting need for additional classroom space at the middle school.
Kate Gauthier asked for clarification on the budget categories listed as "tuition" versus "public tuition." Stripling described the distinction and agreed to prepare a visual pie chart showing the breakdown of salaries, benefits and other expenses for the Board at the next meeting. Meghan Blanchette outlined her priorities for the budget and for the Board’s upcoming presentation to the Board of Finance.
There were no citizen comments on agenda items. Before adjourning, the Board thanked Superintendent Mary Anne Butler for her years of service and presented her with a gift of appreciation. A motion to adjourn at 7:35 p.m., made by Zachary Boudah and seconded by Meghan Blanchette, passed with all voting "Aye."
