Fitchburg Public Schools faces budget constraints amid declining funding and enrollment

In a recent meeting held by the Fitchburg School Committee, officials addressed pressing budgetary challenges facing the district as they prepare for the upcoming fiscal year. Superintendent Thompson highlighted a significant decrease in funding due to lower inflation rates, a decline in student enrollment, and other economic factors. This year, the district is set to invest $2.9 million in the Student Opportunity Act (SOA), which aims to support English Language Learners (EL), special education (SPED), low-income, and Hispanic students.

The meeting revealed that Fitchburg Public Schools will operate on a budget of approximately $101 million for the 2024-2025 school year, with the city contributing over $23 million and state aid from Chapter 70 amounting to $78 million. However, the district is grappling with a reduction in Chapter 70 funds, which have dropped significantly compared to previous years. For instance, while the district received over $7 million in additional Chapter 70 funds in prior years, this year’s allocation is only $3.16 million.

As negotiations for contracts with all seven employee unions are underway, the district faces uncertainty regarding personnel costs and indirect expenses, such as health insurance. Superintendent Thompson emphasized the need for careful planning, noting that the district may have to make difficult decisions regarding staffing and budget cuts to maintain educational quality.

The meeting also underscored the broader context of financial struggles faced by public schools across Massachusetts, with many districts experiencing similar challenges. As the Fitchburg School Committee continues to navigate these complexities, they remain committed to transparency and prioritizing the needs of students in their budgetary decisions. The next steps include further discussions and updates in upcoming meetings, as the committee aims to finalize the budget by early May.