The Ways & Means Subcommittee Meeting for Revere Public Schools, held on May 1, 2025, focused on budget adjustments and staffing changes in response to shifting student enrollment numbers. The meeting began with discussions on class sizes at Beechmont School, where it was noted that 40 fourth graders would be advancing to fifth grade. The current structure of three fifth-grade classes was deemed unnecessary, prompting a proposal to reduce this to two classes, maintaining a favorable student-to-teacher ratio.

The conversation highlighted that while positions may be eliminated, this does not equate to layoffs. Instead, the administration is exploring opportunities to reassign teachers to other grades or schools where vacancies exist. The principals are actively engaged in these discussions to ensure that teachers are not left without positions, emphasizing that the focus is on eliminating positions rather than staff.

Concerns were raised regarding future class sizes, particularly for incoming third and fourth graders. The administration acknowledged that larger classes could emerge in the coming years, necessitating further adjustments. The budget discussions revealed that approximately 22 teaching positions could be reduced, but these cuts would not yield significant savings as many teachers would be reassigned rather than let go.

The meeting also addressed specific staffing changes, including the resignation of a JROTC position and the decision not to refill certain instructional coaching roles. The administration clarified that these cuts are part of a broader strategy to optimize resources without compromising educational quality.

Additionally, the subcommittee discussed the status of vacant teaching positions and the need to evaluate whether they should be filled. Currently, there is one teaching position deemed necessary to fill, while others, including school psychologists and a school nurse position, are being cut due to lack of need.

Overall, the meeting underscored the complexities of managing staffing in response to fluctuating student populations while striving to maintain educational standards. The administration is committed to monitoring these changes closely to ensure that the needs of students and teachers are met effectively.