SPENCER, MA - Last week, on January 28, 2026, Governor Healey filed her FY27 House 2 budget proposal, marking the start of the state's legislative budget cycle. For the Spencer-East Brookfield Regional School District (SEBRSD), this initial state-level blueprint provides several key indicators for local planning.
State Funding & Local Aid Highlights
The Governor’s proposal emphasizes stability during the final year of the Student Opportunity Act (SOA) implementation.
Chapter 70 Education Aid: The budget proposes a statewide total of $7.6 billion, a 3.2% increase over FY26. Crucially, the Governor has recommended a minimum aid increase of $75 per pupil—more than double the statutory requirement of $30—benefiting districts like SEBRSD.
Regional School Transportation: Funding is proposed at $112.3 million, which is estimated to reimburse regional districts for approximately 87% of their transportation costs.
Special Education (SPED) Circuit Breaker: The proposal includes $802.7 million to fully fund the SPED Circuit Breaker, including the full phase-in of transportation cost reimbursements for out-of-district students.
Understanding Our SEBRSD FY27 Budget Proposal
The Spencer-East Brookfield Regional School District is proposing a budget for the 2026-2027 school year that includes an increase of approximately $1.57 million. We know that any budget increase causes concern, and we want to be transparent about why this is happening.
This increase is largely driven by rising costs beyond our immediate control, rather than by new, large-scale initiatives. Here are the primary factors:
Inflationary Cost Pressures: Like households, the district is facing higher costs for electricity, heating, and general supplies - not to mention rising health insurance premiums.
Special Education Costs: The district is experiencing an increase in the cost of legally mandated services for students, including specialized transportation and out-of-district tuition.
Rising Contractual Obligations: Employee salaries and benefits are increasing, reflecting contract agreements and the need to keep staff competitive with surrounding districts.
Loss of Federal Aid: The expiration of federal pandemic funds has removed a significant source of temporary financial support.
What This Means for the District
This budget represents a "level service" plan—meaning it is designed to keep our current programs running and our schools safe and functioning effectively, rather than expanding with new, optional programs. The district remains committed to financial accountability following our past oversight period, and we are working hard to balance these financial realities with providing a quality education to our students.
Local Impact & Next Steps
While House 2 offers a promising foundation, it is only the first step in a multi-month process.
District Process: SEBRSD has already begun FY27 Budget Workshops to align state projections with local operational needs.
Legislative Review: The Massachusetts House and Senate will release their own versions of the budget in the spring, which may further adjust these figures before a final budget is signed in July.
Stay Informed: Residents can monitor the district's progress through the SEBRSD Budget Information page and participate in upcoming public meetings as well as the public hearing.
As always, I thank you for your continued partnership and support of the Spencer-East Brookfield Regional School District. #Innovate #Inspire #Achieve
Sincerely yours,
Paul S. Haughey, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools