Region 9 Board of Education Meeting with Budget Workshop - 2/13/25 @ Joel Barlow High School

The Region 9 Board of Education held a budget workshop on February 13, 2025, at Joel Barlow High School to discuss the proposed 2025-26 education budget totaling approximately $26.77 million, representing a 5.3% increase from the prior year. Key procurement-related topics included the upcoming RFP for architectural services to support STEM facility improvements, with a budgeted $160,000 allocated for this purpose. The board reviewed curriculum development investments, including new STEM courses and textbook adoptions, and discussed the integration of online coursework into the STEM Academy. Special education costs were highlighted as a major budget driver, increasing by 12% due to rising tuition, transportation, and outplacement expenses. The meeting also covered technology expenditures, including instructional software and assessment tools like the I-Ready diagnostic screener, which is incorporated into the budget. Transportation contract costs are expected to rise by 7% with First Student. The board discussed staff changes, professional development funding, and facilities maintenance increases driven by new water filtration systems and mandated inspections. The workshop included detailed budget breakdowns by cost centers and emphasized the importance of aligning curriculum and facilities investments with strategic goals. Board members were encouraged to submit questions via a shared Google document ahead of the next budget workshop scheduled for February 25, 2025.