Here’s a quick update on the status of our FY2013 Budget. The Finance Committee has approved the FY 2013 School Committee Budget for $32,787,202, a 3.38% increase over FY2012. It is important to remember and underscore that we were able to achieve an agreed upon budget that supports current staffing and needs because of the Bedford Education Association contract settlement. While the budget is not final until Annual Town Meeting approval at the end of March, the Finance Committee vote is a significant step forward. This budget maintains current programming and includes the following restorations and additions:
- (.5) Instructional Technology Specialist at Davis School
- (.5) Tech Support staff
- (.4) Teaching Assistant BHS Skills Center (.6) TA Crossroads program
- (2) Teaching Assistants and a (1.0) Teacher for the JGMS Transitions Program
- Increase in time for Adjustment Counsellors at Lane and JGMS and Occupational Therapist at Lane
- Implementation of the K12 plan for technology purchases following a hiatus for the last several years
- Purchase of iPads for grade 10
I am deeply appreciative that the Finance Committee has supported this budget. Getting there has been a team effort. I know that the wonderful work that our staff does each and every day in our schools each day is the reason this amazing town continues to support our schools. As we move this budget forward, I want to extend a special thanks to David Coelho and Cyndy Taymore who have been wonderful partners in helping me shape and present the budget we need for our schools. And kudos to the Bedford School Committee for the many hours they have invested to get us to this juncture.
