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Monson schools seek $851,000 operating boost in FY2027 budget; transportation deficit flagged
Summary
Superintendent Paul Foster presented an FY2027 budget with a level-service increase of about $385,000 and an operating request of roughly $851,000, citing contractual salary increases, curriculum needs and growing student supports; transportation costs project a $56,000 deficit for FY2026 if current runs continue.
Monson Superintendent Paul Foster outlined the districts FY2027 budget request at the School Committee meeting on Feb. 11, saying the district submitted both a level-service budget and a larger operating request that would fund additional staffing and program needs.
Foster said the level-service proposal would increase spending by roughly $385,000 (about 3 percent) to cover contractual salary obligations, inflation and routine renewals. The operating request, which the administration described as the resources needed to operate successfully, totals about $851,000 (about 6.5 percent) over the current year and would fund targeted additions including expansion of career pathways, a counselor at Granite Valley, kindergarten aides, a fifth preschool classroom, a third night custodian and a Special Education Coordinator.
"Maintaining current services requires additional funding," Foster said, explaining that contract increases and the rising cost of goods and services are the largest drivers. He added that the operating request is focused "less on adding new programs and more on addressing needs that have not been fully funded and that are creating operational challenges." (Paul Foster)
The district also flagged a growing transportation shortfall for FY2026. Director of Business and Operations Leah Zippin said two unexpected costsa specialized-transportation placement beginning in February and a new daily midday run added in Januaryhave pushed the transportation deficit to about $56,000 if current trends continue through June.
Foster reviewed the districts seven cost centers and noted the high school shows the largest dollar increase, driven in part by program expansions. He described one priority as building career pathways at the high school, including an Early College partnership through Southern New Hampshire University that would allow students to earn college credit for approved courses. Foster also urged investment in a financial management software package to replace spreadsheet-based processes used in budgeting, purchasing and accounts payable.
School Committee members described administrative staffing pressures and the impact of positions eliminated during tight budget years. Chair Alison Morgan said some non-union employees are performing more duties than their current pay reflects, creating operational risk. Foster said the combined dollar amount proposed for targeted non-union salary adjustments is less than adding a new administrative position and does not represent a plan to expand the administration.
The superintendent noted long-range fiscal conversations will continue with the town; Mini-Tri Board discussion earlier this month indicated the town is still awaiting final Cherry Sheet numbers and other figures that could widen a projected municipal shortfall. Committee members discussed options including reserve draws, further budget reductions, continued advocacy for state aid increases, or considering an override as a multi-year solution.
No vote was taken on the FY2027 request at the meeting; Foster encouraged the public to view the full presentation posted with the Feb. 9 Town Finance Committee meeting. The Tri-Board will discuss the school budget and town finances on Feb. 23, and the School Committee will continue budget deliberations at upcoming subcommittee meetings and its March regular meeting.
