Finance Panel Reviews FY27 School Budget Cuts
Grafton Finance Committee warned that rejecting a spring override could cost more than approving one.
Finance Committee · Meeting of March 19, 2026
Grafton Finance Committee warned that rejecting a spring override could cost more than approving one. HR Director and Assistant Superintendent Jay told the panel the FY27 school budget faces a $1.2 million jump in out-of-district tuition, driven by five new placements and the loss of a depleted special education reserve, and that the district is not restoring $610,000 in FY26 cuts. Member Daniel Cusher argued the budget "is not actually level services," while member Angelina Correia called letting the district fall into dysfunction "a poor investment." Officials said Grafton could lose roughly $900,000 a year in school choice revenue if class sizes rise, and cited Northbridge, whose override failed around 2006, as a district still struggling two decades later.
Only two of about 270 teachers are at the top pay step. The committee set April 29 and April 30 for its town meeting warrant hearing and recommendation vote.
In the full story:
- The complete report — 756 words
Source: the Finance Committee meeting of March 19, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.
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