Given the uncertainty of the override vote, Town officials advised the School Department to develop a “Plan B” budget that reflects a reduction of $1.6 million from the 2025 budget approved by the School Committee on Thursday, March 14, 2024.
If the Proposition 2 1/2 override does not pass, I will submit a new proposed budget to the School Committee for discussion and final approval, then the Town will need to approve it. Over vacation I worked with the district leadership team to bring the budget down by $1.4 million, which is less than the recommended amount. In addition to the seven previously eliminated positions in the override budget, the new anticipated reductions include:
- Elimination of six or seven teacher positions (GEA)
- Six support staff positions (GESA)
- One full-time technology technician position
- Multiple stipend positions in the district
- Three administrators from district leadership
- Reduction of district and school operational costs, including instructional supplies, curriculum, and maintenance equipment.
- Two reinstated positions back to the override budget will be eliminated
The impact on these reductions will:
- Increase class sizes in Grades K-5 (up to 26 students) and 9-12 (over 20 students),
- Limit electives at the secondary level
- Decrease academic support and enrichment in the elementary grades
- Slow response for technology problems
- Reduced support for teachers and staff, and fewer teacher leader opportunities
- Have a significant impact on social emotional support
The Town of Georgetown launched a budget portal website with a great deal of information concerning the Town and School Department budgets. Click on the link if you would like more information.
Georgetown is also planning a townwide budget “open house” evening on Friday, May 3, 2024 from 5:30 -7:30 p.m. in the Penn Brook gymnasium and cafeteria. There will be children’s activities in the form of movies/arts and crafts and free food, all generously supported by the Georgetown PTA!
During this event, you will have a chance to talk with each department and understand why each department is asking for additional funds and what the implications are if the override does not pass.