During the MSAD52 Board of Directors meeting on March 12, 2025, a significant discussion emerged regarding budget cuts and their potential impact on educational programs. Board members expressed a strong desire to identify non-essential expenditures that could be reduced without affecting student learning.

One board member emphasized the need for a clear list of items that could be cut, stating, “I would like to see all of those things that are not going to impact our students at all.” This sentiment reflects a growing concern among parents and community members about the district's performance, particularly in light of declining test scores. The board is considering cuts to various operational costs, including facilities and technology, while ensuring that essential teaching positions remain intact.

The conversation also touched on the importance of maintaining funding for field trips, with assurances that transportation costs would not be eliminated. “We agreed not to completely zero it out,” a board member confirmed, highlighting the commitment to preserving enriching experiences for students.

As the meeting progressed, the board discussed the overall budget implications, revealing a proposed 7.15% increase to the budget and an 8.86% increase to local towns. This increase has raised concerns among board members about the potential discomfort it may cause within the community.

In a bid for clarity and direction, board members considered taking a straw poll to gauge support for the proposed budget adjustments. The urgency of the situation was palpable, with one member stating, “We need to leave here with concrete guidance on where we need to go because of the limited time that we have left.”

As the board continues to navigate these budgetary challenges, the focus remains on balancing fiscal responsibility with the educational needs of students, ensuring that cuts do not compromise the quality of education in the district.