The New Bedford City Council convened on June 5, 2025, for a quasi-committee of the whole meeting focused on budget hearings. The primary agenda item was a detailed presentation regarding the school budget, which had been previously approved by the school committee in May.

The discussion began with an overview of the financial landscape shaped by the Student Opportunity Act (SOA), which has significantly increased state funding for districts like New Bedford over the past five years. The superintendent highlighted that New Bedford has received a total of $75 million in additional state aid since fiscal year 2022, with $30 million allocated for normal operational growth and $20 million for mandated costs, including special education services.

A key point of the presentation was the district's commitment to investing in staff and facilities. The superintendent noted that 75% of the operating budget is dedicated to staffing, which includes hiring more paraeducators and support staff to enhance educational services. The district has also made strides in improving school facilities, with expectations that the upcoming MSBA survey will show a significant reduction in the percentage of students attending substandard facilities.

As the meeting progressed, the superintendent outlined the budget for fiscal year 2026, which totals approximately $267 million. This includes $250 million in net school spending and $17 million in non-net school spending, primarily for transportation. The budget aims to maintain class sizes and support for students with special needs while also expanding curriculum offerings and early childhood education programs.

Council members raised questions regarding the budget's alignment with the mayor's proposed budget and the potential for a revised budget based on state funding outcomes. Concerns were expressed about a projected $4.5 million reduction in the budget, with discussions on how to accommodate this shortfall without compromising educational services.

The superintendent assured council members that the school department has contingency plans in place for budget adjustments and emphasized the importance of maintaining net school spending commitments. The meeting concluded with a commitment to provide additional data requested by council members, including details on average classroom sizes and staffing trends.

Overall, the meeting underscored the ongoing challenges and strategic planning involved in managing the New Bedford school budget, particularly in light of fluctuating state funding and the need to meet educational standards and community expectations.