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Middlesex schools propose 1.1% local increase to sustain top regional rankings
Summary
Dr. Seitz presented a proposed FY27 school budget requesting a 1.1% ($155,000) local increase to maintain academic programs and accreditation; officials stressed a 'No Tax Increase' approach and noted state funding formulas cover roughly 55% of staff positions.
Dr. Seitz presented the School Division’s proposed FY2027 budget and argued that a modest local increase is needed to preserve current program levels and accreditation. He said the Local Composite Index shifted from 0.6389 to 0.6207, increasing the state’s share of funding responsibility, but cautioned that the state funds only about 55% of staffing through the Standards of Quality formulas and "not at actual salary levels," leaving substantial personnel costs to local budgets.
The School Board requested a 1.1% local increase—$155,000—and reaffirmed a "No Tax Increase" position and a pledge not to use fund balance to close the gap. Dr. Seitz characterized the proposal as "a disciplined, lean budget necessary to sustain the division’s #1 regional ranking and operational continuity." Board members and administrators discussed moving certain one-time purchases into the CIP to lessen operating pressure and emphasized that final figures depend on pending state funding numbers.
