Danvers is taking proactive steps to manage its budget for the upcoming fiscal year, focusing on addressing rising costs in special education and transportation. During the Finance Committee Budget Review on April 14, 2025, officials discussed the challenges posed by increasing expenses while highlighting strategies to maintain service levels.

One of the key points raised was the district's reliance on Chapter 70 funding, which supports educational needs across Massachusetts. The district is optimistic about reaching a threshold of 104 students per day, which could positively impact funding through a supplemental budget. However, officials acknowledged that special education costs, particularly transportation, have been a significant concern, with projections indicating a substantial increase from 2018 to 2025.

To combat these rising costs, the district has settled contracts with staff, resulting in a 4.05% increase for the year. This stability is crucial for maintaining continuity in services, especially as inflationary pressures affect all districts. The district is also exploring ways to maximize resources through careful personnel management, including potential savings from retirements.

In a notable move to address transportation costs, Danvers plans to add two 7D vans, which will facilitate in-district special education transportation. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to flatten the curve of rising expenses. The district has already seen savings from hiring a new driver and is looking to recruit a second.

Additionally, the district is working with a collaborative to manage out-of-district transportation, which is projected to yield savings of 8 to 10%. This effort is part of a comprehensive approach to ensure that the district can sustain its budget while continuing to meet the needs of its students.

As Danvers moves forward, the focus remains on balancing the budget while providing essential services, demonstrating a commitment to fiscal responsibility and community support.