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Special education costs and facility needs shape Hoosac Valley draft budget
Summary
Superintendent Aaron Dean warned that special education (274 IEPs, eight out-of-district placements, ~50 students with ASD) and rising health insurance costs (projected 15–20%) are major drivers of the FY budget; facility needs (roof delayed, gym repairs estimated ~$120,000) add pressure.
The superintendent told the Hoosac Valley Regional School Committee on Jan. 12 that special education costs and facilities needs are prominent drivers in early FY budget planning.
Aaron Dean reported the district currently has 274 individualized education programs (IEPs), eight students in out-of-district placements and approximately 50 students identified with autism spectrum disorder. The district is evaluating in-district capacity and tuition costs and flagged Tier II intervention support as a budget concern. Dean said budget assumptions will rely on Chapter 70 aid, charter reimbursement, school choice revenue and an expected 15–20% increase in health insurance costs. House 1 budget figures were anticipated on Jan. 26, with further discussion planned in early February.
On facilities, administration said the state funding application for a roof project will not open until January next year, making the roof a likely 2028 capital item; that update will be shared with local select boards. The committee also reviewed the middle school gym basketball hoop system, where options to reinforce beams or install standalone hoops were considered but an estimated cost of roughly $120,000 was described as prohibitive in the current budget. Administration plans to meet with staff and coaches to determine short-term steps for the remainder of the season and consider external fundraising; no budget allocation was made at the meeting.
The committee accepted ACE Foundation classroom grants (awards up to $2,000) and a Barrett Foundation award to purchase and replenish middle school band instruments to support students with financial need; the committee voted unanimously to accept the donations.
The superintendent framed advocacy priorities to include full funding of the Special Education Circuit Breaker and Rural Aid.
