Concerns over school funding took center stage at the Acton-Boxborough School Committee meeting on March 13, 2025, as committee members voiced urgent calls for reform in state funding mechanisms. The discussion highlighted the challenges of maintaining educational services amid rising expenses, with committee member Tory expressing that the current budget growth rate of 3% is insufficient to meet the district's needs.

Tory emphasized the importance of communicating these financial challenges to the community, stating, "We can't keep going at 3%. Like, this is it." Fellow committee member Ginny echoed these sentiments, urging educators, parents, and community members to advocate for changes to Chapter 70 funding, which has been criticized as outdated and ineffective since a 2015 report.

In a proactive move, the committee announced plans to distribute a template letter drafted by Sherry, allowing families to easily contact their legislators and express their concerns about school funding. This initiative aims to mobilize community support ahead of a critical budget hearing scheduled for March 24 at UMass Amherst, where school representatives will testify about the pressing financial issues facing the district.

The committee's efforts underscore a growing recognition that without significant changes to state funding, the quality of education in Acton-Boxborough may be at risk. As the meeting concluded, the urgency for community engagement and advocacy was clear, with members committed to rallying support for necessary reforms.