West Hartford Public Schools is facing a tough financial situation. At a recent Board of Education meeting, officials revealed that the district’s general fund is short by $1 million. This deficit is largely due to rising costs for critical services like transportation and tuition for special education students.
Superintendent Paul Vicinus, along with Town Manager Rick Ledwith and Mayor Shari Cantor, recently met with local legislators to discuss the district’s funding challenges. They emphasized the urgent need for increased state reimbursement to address this budget shortfall. Vicinus encouraged community members to share their concerns with lawmakers as well.
The trouble stems from a drop in reimbursements from the state, specifically a key grant that helps cover special education expenses. Elizabeth Hewitt, the district’s finance director, explained that the general fund is expected to be $1 million in the red by the end of the fiscal year on June 30. To balance the budget, the district needs additional state funds, a supplementary appropriation from the town, or cuts to spending.
While salaries are currently under budget by $250,000, other areas are not faring as well. Special education costs, including off-site transportation and tuition, have contributed significantly to the deficit. The district is set to receive $3.7 million less than expected in reimbursements due to capped state funding.
To alleviate some financial pressure, the district plans to draw $350,000 from its special programs fund, leaving a remaining shortfall of $1.4 million in the general fund. Despite some savings in utilities, this situation requires urgent attention.
Governor Ned Lamont has promised an extra $40 million for special education in the 2027 fiscal year, but many in the community feel this is too far off. Vicinus highlighted the need for immediate support to tackle current funding shortages that affect many districts statewide. Many are facing similar hardships due to a formula that limits reimbursement based on state funding caps, despite rising costs.
During their discussions with legislators, Vicinus and his team stressed the need for immediate actions to address the mounting budget pressures. They hope to turn the tide on flat funding that has not kept pace with increasing educational costs.
Board member Jason Gagnon pointed out that the state needs to fulfill its original commitment to cover 85% of excess costs for special education, a promise that has diminished over recent years. Gagnon warned that if this trend continues, the district may need to plan for even lower reimbursement rates, impacting future budgets significantly.
In response to the governor’s budget address, Connecticut Education Association President Kate Dias also voiced concerns. She criticized the need for urgent reforms in special education funding and teacher shortages, saying that while some proposals are encouraging, they do not address the pressing needs faced by schools today.
As the district prepares for the next budget, it’s clear that support from the community and state is crucial for the sustainability of education in West Hartford and beyond.
