In a recent hybrid remote meeting held by the Beverly Public Schools School Committee, members discussed the proposed budget for the fiscal year 2026, amounting to $85,372,614. The primary focus of the meeting was on the allocation of resources, particularly concerning staffing configurations at the fifth grade level.

Committee member Ms. Biznick initiated a discussion about the possibility of reallocating resources to enhance the fifth-grade team structure. She proposed the addition of a second two-person team at the fifth grade, suggesting that this change could improve educational outcomes for students transitioning from fourth to fifth grade. This proposal would involve shifting a math interventionist position from the seventh and eighth grades to the fifth grade, a move that would not alter the overall budget but would change how resources are distributed within the school.

Ms. Oliver, another committee member, supported this idea, emphasizing the importance of addressing the unique challenges faced by fifth graders during their transition. She noted that while the math interventionist role has been crucial in supporting students in grades seven and eight, the current needs of the fifth-grade students warrant this operational shift. The committee acknowledged that while the proposed changes would not impact the budget directly, they could significantly affect the educational experience for students.

Throughout the discussion, members expressed varying opinions on the best approach to staffing and resource allocation. Some voiced concerns about the potential impact on math instruction in the upper grades if the interventionist position were to be moved. However, there was a consensus that the fifth grade requires additional support to ensure a smooth transition for students.

The meeting concluded with a recognition of the complexities involved in staffing decisions and the need for ongoing dialogue about the best strategies to support student achievement across all grade levels. As the committee prepares to finalize the budget, the discussions highlighted the importance of balancing immediate educational needs with long-term academic goals. The next steps will involve further deliberation on the proposed amendments and their implications for the overall educational framework within the district.