Board of Education March 16, 2026

The New Kingdom Board of Education held a regular meeting on March 16, 2026, focusing extensively on special education programming and budget updates. Key procurement-related discussions included strategic investments in special education programs aimed at reducing out-of-district placements, the expansion of intensive resource classrooms at elementary schools, and the implementation of an AI pilot program to assist teachers in writing higher quality IEPs more efficiently. Budget discussions highlighted a 2.98% increase in the operating budget, staffing plan adjustments including the integration of building substitute positions, and a significant $1.8 million reduction in the capital budget by the Board of Selectmen, which notably cut funding for a communication system project at the middle school. The board approved amendments to the 2025-2026 school district calendar and discussed ongoing efforts to manage special education costs, including tuition for out-of-district placements and the impact of recent legal and legislative changes on settlement agreements. The meeting also covered operational staffing, transportation needs, and the establishment of a non-lapsing account to fund pre-K classroom moves and setup.