04/14/2026 WCSD BOE Meeting

The Watertown City School District Board of Education held a meeting on April 14, 2026, focusing extensively on the proposed 2026-2027 school budget and capital improvement projects. The board reviewed a $112 million budget proposal, highlighting a 7.9% increase in expenditures with a tax levy increase capped at 2.55%. Key budget drivers included a 20% rise in health insurance costs and increased special education enrollment. The board discussed leveraging various funding sources, including FEMA and state aid, to support ongoing and future capital projects, such as air conditioning infrastructure upgrades and a $110 million capital improvement plan. The board approved contracts for phase 1A of the capital project, awarding bids to several contractors for construction and electrical work. Additionally, the district is implementing a new student information system, Focus, to replace an outdated system, aiming to improve data access and instructional planning. The meeting also included presentations on career and technical education programs and recognition of staff achievements. Several motions related to budget approval, capital outlay projects, and contract awards were passed unanimously.