October 26, 2026 - Finance Meeting

The October 26, 2026, Stratford Public Schools Finance Meeting accepted the September 28 minutes and reviewed current-year financial reports, grant funding, special-education placements, food service, and enrollment. No budget transfers were added, and no contract awards or purchasing approvals were made. Grant amounts remain subject to state approval; the district is monitoring IDEA and Title I funding. Staff also reported two residential placements that were not budgeted, estimated in discussion at about $500,000 each. Excess-cost reimbursement is expected to cover 80% but has typically been closer to 60%; the district is assessing current and potential placements for future budgeting. Members also discussed electricity costs, anticipated to be manageable alongside savings from solar panels, and the food service program’s reduced fund balance, which was down about $100,000 primarily because of unpaid meal costs.

The district clarified that Sodexo has the right of first refusal for major catering events: Sodexo must be offered the work first, and other vendors may be considered if it cannot provide the service; small snacks and similar items are exempt. This guidance may affect opportunities for outside catering vendors. Staff will follow up on a question about the financial-report line for property services and correct apparent errors in enrollment and demographic charts. The meeting adjourned after a motion and second; no procurement-related spending motion was taken.