Stonington school officials outline proposed 2021-22 budget
Stonington — School officials on Tuesday night outlined their proposed 2021-22 budget of $38.3 million and its 2.5% increase for the Board of Finance.
Board member Gordon Lord read a letter from school board Chairman Frank Todisco, who was away on business. Todisco called the proposed budget a responsible spending package for taxpayers that provides necessary education services for students.
He pointed out three areas — employees raises, health insurance and special education transportation — account for much of the $934,000 increase. He concluded by respectfully asking the finance board to send the budget to referendum and let the community make the decision.
Board member Jack Morehouse pointed out the many innovative initiatives in the school system over the past few years that the finance board members might not be aware of. He said state test results continue to improve, outpacing communities such as East Lyme and Waterford, and described the benefits of the many advanced placement courses at the high school and enrichment classes at the middle school, such as forensic science and international sports.
He also listed the many awards the school system has won and its many community partnerships with organizations including Mystic Seaport Museum, Mystic Aquarium, Stonington Historical Society, LaGrua Center and more. Morehouse said the town's school system is highly rated and attractive to people looking to relocate.
Finance board members asked school officials numerous questions about efforts to lower special education costs through the establishment of the school system's Learning Annex and expenses that will be covered by federal COVID-19 aid.
Superintendent of Schools Van Riley also told the board that all COVID-related costs, such as summer school to help struggling students catch up, that will be funded by federal CARES Act money have been removed from the proposed budget.
The finance board also reviewed the $4.1 million in capital improvement requests from the school board, including $2.5 million in repairs and upgrades to the air conditioning systems at the high school and middle school. It is possible these items could be removed from the budget and be made part of a bond issue with other town projects.
The finance board now will begin the task of reviewing and cutting the general government, school and capital improvement budget as it works to finalize a budget to send to a town meeting and referendum vote later this spring.
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