Narragansett School Committee outlines budget challenges amid declining enrollment and state aid cuts

The Narragansett Town Council held a worksession on December 16, 2024, focusing on the upcoming school budget and various factors influencing its development. The meeting began with a commitment to serving the community's children, emphasizing collaboration among council members.

The primary topic of discussion was the budget for the next fiscal year, which is significantly impacted by declining student enrollment. Since 2019, enrollment has decreased by over 10%, largely due to rising housing costs making it difficult for families with young children to settle in Narragansett. This trend is expected to lead to further staffing reductions within the school system.

Additionally, the council anticipates a cut of approximately $200,000 in state aid due to the state's revenue deficit, which will further strain the budget. While there has been an increase in the number of students living in poverty—over 20%—this additional aid will not fully compensate for the overall decline in student numbers.

Contract negotiations for two major unions representing school staff are also on the agenda, with both contracts up for renewal this year. These negotiations will play a crucial role in shaping the budget, as personnel costs account for over 80% of the school system's expenses.

Despite these challenges, the school district is making strides in program development. A new career and technical education program in sports medicine and athletic training has been approved, joining existing programs in agriscience, digital media, computer science, plumbing, and education. The district also boasts a strong Advanced Placement program, recognized for its excellence.

The discussion also touched on the financial implications of student tuition. While the district receives tuition from students enrolling in its programs, it also incurs costs for students attending other schools, including charter schools. The council noted that the district must absorb these costs, which can be significant, especially for students with special needs requiring outplacement.

Capital improvements were highlighted as a priority, with the district committing about 3% of its budget to maintenance and improvements. A five-year reevaluation of long-term needs is set to begin in the spring, aiming to secure future housing aid from the state.

The meeting concluded with a reminder of the importance of understanding the overall financial picture. Narragansett has one of the lowest per capita costs for education in the state, with only 44% of the town's budget allocated to schools, compared to neighboring towns that allocate significantly more. The council expressed gratitude for the community's support and emphasized the importance of maintaining a high-quality education system while being financially responsible.

Overall, the worksession underscored the challenges facing the Narragansett school system, including enrollment declines, budget constraints, and the need for continued investment in educational programs. The council remains committed to navigating these issues thoughtfully to serve the community effectively.