Scituate School Budget Keeps Staff, Plans Curriculum Investments

The Scituate School District has put forward a proposed fiscal year 2026 operating budget of $48,125,617, representing a 2% increase from the previous year.

Superintendent Bill Burkhead emphasized that the budget aligns with the district’s strategic plan while avoiding layoffs or the need for a taxpayer override.

“Although this budget today represents only a 2% increase… I am proud to report that this budget does reflect the values of our strategic plan,” said Burkhead.

Approximately 80% of the budget is allocated to personnel costs, underscoring the district’s commitment to its educators and support staff.

“At the heart of this budget lies a profound appreciation for the dedication and tireless effort of our incredible educators and support staff,” said Burkhead.

Special Education Funding Remains a Challenge

One of the more difficult financial pressures the district faces is special education funding, with an additional $400,000 allocated for out-of-district tuition expenses.

Director of Business and Finance Tom Raab highlighted the unpredictable nature of these costs.

“It’s six-figure volatility, which makes it so difficult,” said Raab.

To better manage these fluctuations in the future, the district may consider establishing a special education reserve fund.

Maintaining Staff, Cutting Expenses

The proposed budget maintains current staffing levels across all schools, but some supply and expense lines have been reduced as part of cost-saving measures.

“Everyone would have liked even just a level of service… we’re gonna have to wait a year,” said Burkhead.

Curriculum Investments Move Forward

The district plans to invest $200,000 each in new social studies materials for the middle and high school levels, following last year’s math curriculum adoption.

Additionally, efforts are underway to align instruction with the “science of reading” approach, a research-backed methodology for literacy instruction.

“We’ve made financial commitments and investments in high-quality instructional materials that are approved by DESE to make sure that they’re aligned with the science of reading,” said Elementary Humanities Coordinator Megan Gregory.

Public Input Encouraged

The school committee will hold a more in-depth budget hearing on February 3, providing an opportunity for community feedback before final adjustments are made.