The Lyme-Old Lyme school district has proposed a $41.5 million budget for the 2026-2027 academic year, representing a 4.61% increase from the current budget. The proposed budget includes a significant increase in special education funding, driven by the need for out-of-school placements.
Special Education Funding Increase
The proposed budget includes a $2.5 million allocation for special education, which represents a 26.3% increase from the current year. This increase is largely due to the need for out-of-school placements, which are expected to remain at current levels.
Lyme-Old Lyme proposes $41.5M budget with 4.61% increase, including 26.3% increase in special education funding.
Salaries and Benefits
The proposed budget also includes a $17.3 million allocation for teacher and administrator salaries, which represents a 3.8% increase from the current budget. Health insurance costs are projected to rise by $357,949, based on an estimated 15% increase.
The proposed budget reflects our commitment to providing high-quality education and supporting the needs of all students.
Laura Lurns · Learning Success expert
Facilities and Capital Projects
The proposed budget includes a $2.6 million allocation for facilities, which represents an 8.3% increase from the current budget. The facilities proposal includes $322,550 in capital projects, including replacing hot water heaters and repairing the rear concrete entry at Lyme School.
Key takeaways
- Budget Increase: 4.61% proposed increase in the Lyme-Old Lyme school district budgetSpecial Education: 26.3% increase in special education funding due to out-of-school placementsSalaries and Benefits: 3.8% increase in teacher and administrator salaries
Comparison to Other Districts
The proposed budget increase of 4.61% is lower than that of several neighboring districts, including Madison, Westbrook, Clinton, East Lyme, Guilford, and Old Saybrook.
The proposed budget reflects the district’s commitment to providing high-quality education and supporting the needs of all students. By investing in special education and facilities, the district aims to create a positive and inclusive learning environment.
Learn more about the proposed budget and its implications for the Lyme-Old Lyme school district.
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References
- LymeLine: Superintendent Recommends 4.6% Budget Increase
