Education Budget Process Begins, New Roof Rising and Better Science in the Future

A quick synopsis of what happened at last night’s board of education meeting.

• The annual budget process has begun and school Superintendent Tim Connellan outlined some of the key factors that will affect the numbers this year which include a reduction in grant funding, salary changes, increases in instructional supplies, special education transportation costs, oil and maintenance supplies. The board is scheduling a series of budget workshops as they are expected to adopt a budget by Feb. 8.
•  The board discussed ramping up the science program at the , which would include upgrading the science room and adding an additional staff member. Superintendent Connellan said that the school is looking forward to that happening, however the science room is currently being used for other necessary programs. Space usage will have to be addressed before the science program can be upgraded.
• The technology committee has been appointed and includes Chris Pittenger, Mary Sofair and Brian Fournier.
• The new annex roof is in process, although moving slower than expected. According to Connellan the work is progressing slowly, however, the majority of the shingles are on. By Friday he said he should have a better idea of the timeline for completion.