Shutesbury School Committee gives preliminary approval to 6.32 percent FY27 budget

School Committee · Meeting of February 12, 2026

Shutesbury School Committee unanimously approved a preliminary FY27 school budget carrying a 6.32 percent increase, keeping the district on track for the May 9 annual town meeting. Director of Finance and Operations Caitlin told the committee the increase would have been roughly 3.88 percent absent unexpected cost pressures, and said current-year finances remain stable despite higher special education and transportation costs. The committee also spent roughly 45 minutes briefing members on the financial crisis at Pelham Elementary School, where the town faces a 7 percent regional school assessment increase, and discussed whether a tuition agreement could bring Pelham students to Shutesbury — with Chair Robin noting the committee wants "to see whether it makes sense for us first." Regional representative Anna reported the Amherst-Pelham regional budget is moving toward roughly $2.06 million in cuts — approximately 28 full-time-equivalent positions — with specific affected positions not yet publicly identified.

Robin announced at the meeting's close that she will not seek reelection to her school committee seat.

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Source: the School Committee meeting of February 12, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.