May 18, 2026 - Board Finance Committee Meeting (Public Hearing)

The Dorchester School District Two Board Finance Committee held a public hearing on May 18, 2026, to discuss the proposed 2026-2027 budget. The meeting focused on budget priorities including teacher and classified staff retention, salary increases, and capital projects funded through local property taxes and referendum funds. The committee reviewed revenue sources, including state aid and federal supplemental funds, and detailed expenditure plans emphasizing salaries and benefits, which constitute the majority of the budget. A proposed $2,500 increase in starting teacher salaries and a $14.7 million increase in expenditures were discussed, with a $4.6 million funding gap noted. The committee also addressed challenges related to uncertain final funding amounts from county and state authorities, which may delay budget approval. Additionally, ongoing capital projects and vendor-related financial matters were mentioned, with details to be disclosed upon board approval.