Inside the Latest BOE Meeting: Funding, Enrollment & Big Decisions

The Board of Education met this week to review the district’s financial position, approve the 2026–27 school calendar, discuss enrollment projections, and explore ways to strengthen educational programs while managing rising costs. Below is a summary of the key takeaways for the community.

Financial Overview: Budget Pressures Continue

The board approved $772,670.38 in expenditures through December 5, covering payroll, tuition, transportation, and software services.

Major payments included:

• $243,396.22 to Eastconn for out-of-district tuition

• $20,056.16 for shared transportation

• $12,507.33 for Tyler Technologies financial software

• $8,448 for Project Genesis educational supports

The district is facing a budget gap of $642,748.96, which recently grew by another $75,000 due to necessary speech service encumbrances. The budget relies heavily on receiving an estimated $600,000–$640,000 in state excess cost grants, but state payments have been inconsistent. The superintendent emphasized continued advocacy at the state level.

The district maintains a non-lapsing balance of $126,000 and capital fund balance of $113,000, which help with cash flow, but additional funding or cost adjustments will be needed to stabilize the year.

Enrollment Forecast: Small Declines Ahead

Enrollment remains generally steady, but projections show a gradual decline in early grades. NESDEC predicts kindergarten classes will drop from 28 students today to 21 by 2026–27. While forecasts vary, fewer students overall increase budget pressure because savings from small class reductions are limited.

The board discussed partnering with other districts to improve long-term enrollment projections and regional planning.

2026–27 School Calendar Approved

The board approved the 2026–27 school calendar with one important change:

• Student start date: August 25

• Last day of school: June 9

This adjustment avoids starting students with a full five-day week. Teacher contract days remain unchanged at 189.

Parents will receive the updated calendar shortly.

High School Tuition & Regional Collaboration

The board reviewed the renewal of the Putnam High School tuition agreement, which includes a 3% annual cap on tuition increases. While few Pomfret students currently choose Putnam, the district sees value in maintaining multiple high school options.

Regional collaboration continues to be a priority, including shared service exploration and participation in regional leadership meetings.

Policy Updates & Board Development

The board is updating several policies, including social media etiquette, community use of facilities, and upcoming revisions to special education and school safety policies. Members also participated in recent FOIA and board governance training to improve communication and board effectiveness.

Upcoming Meetings

The board will join the Board of Finance and Board of Selectmen for a joint meeting on January 14, where budget status and financial planning will be major topics.

The next Board of Education meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, January 21, at 6:30 p.m. in the PCS Library. All are welcome!

I am sharing this information as Kathleen Sposato in my personal capacity. I am not speaking on behalf of the Pomfret Board of Education, nor am I acting as its official spokesperson. The views, summaries, and opinions expressed here are my own and do not represent the positions, statements, or policies of the Board of Education or its members.