Fitchburg School Committee discusses funding and challenges of special education programs

The Fitchburg Public Schools School Committee meeting held on April 1, 2024, focused on critical financial discussions regarding school choice funding and special education costs. The meeting began with inquiries about the funds received from students attending Goodrich Academy, highlighting the complexities of school choice funding in Massachusetts.

Committee members discussed the financial implications of school choice, noting that Fitchburg pays approximately $5,800 for each student who chooses to attend another district while receiving funds for students from other communities attending Fitchburg schools. The discussion revealed a significant disparity, with Fitchburg spending about $2.5 million on students who attend other districts while receiving around $1 million from students who come from outside the district.

The committee also examined the costs associated with special education, which accounted for a substantial portion of the budget. It was noted that 24% of the student population, approximately 160 students, are in out-of-district placements due to severe special needs that cannot be met within the district. Superintendent Thompson and Mr. Roche emphasized the ongoing efforts to develop more specialized programs within Fitchburg to reduce out-of-district placements, particularly as new facilities become available.

Concerns were raised about the rising costs of special education placements, with some private institutions charging upwards of $63,000 per student. The committee acknowledged the need for collaboration with educational collaboratives to provide necessary services within the district, which could help manage costs more effectively.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to explore options for enhancing special education services and reducing reliance on out-of-district placements, while ensuring that the needs of all students are met. The committee plans to continue discussions on these pressing financial issues in future meetings, aiming to balance budgetary constraints with the educational needs of the community.