Council approves $44.3M budget for the 2026 fiscal year

In a recent meeting held by the Ashland Public Schools School Committee, members gathered to finalize the budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Under the warm glow of city hall lights, the atmosphere was one of collaboration and determination as the committee moved to close the public hearing.

With a swift motion, the committee approved a budget of $44,350,743 for the 2026 fiscal year. The approval was met with a chorus of “Ayes,” reflecting the collective agreement among members. “Thanks for all your hard work,” one member expressed, acknowledging the effort that went into crafting the budget. This financial plan is crucial for ensuring that the schools can continue to provide quality education and resources for students.

Following the budget discussion, the committee turned its attention to the appointment of a member to the Driscoll Scholarship Committee. This committee plays a vital role in reviewing scholarship applications for students, particularly seniors. The process, which was conducted via Zoom last year, involves collaboration with a small group of committee members. However, one member expressed a desire to step back from this role, citing a lack of interest and the potential conflict of interest due to personal connections with applicants.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the committee values transparency and community involvement, encouraging members to participate while also respecting their individual preferences. The evening concluded with a sense of accomplishment, as the committee not only secured funding for the future but also navigated the complexities of committee appointments with care.

This meeting highlights the ongoing commitment of the Ashland Public Schools to foster an environment of support and collaboration, ensuring that both financial and educational needs are met as they look ahead to the next school year.