# 2026.10.19 Regular BOE Meeting

The Thomaston Board of Education’s regular meeting, listed as October 19, 2026, focused heavily on widespread payroll and benefits errors and the district’s projected 2026–27 budget deficit. Staff members requested an independent outside review of payroll, retirement, HSA, and other contribution accounts, along with clear timelines and communication; the board and administration said correcting the errors was a priority. Members discussed whether to use an outside payroll provider, but took no procurement action. The budget report identified projected salary overruns and required special-education costs; costs for interim administrators and a payroll consultant were not yet included. A $390,000 grant was reported as recently awarded, with possible budget relief dependent on further review of grant allocations. Staff also reported that key special-education instructional materials, including Spire and the Unique Learning System, had not been ordered or delivered. No contract award, RFP, or vendor selection was approved.

The board approved a Spain field trip for grades 8–11 in June 2028. It also passed, with one vote opposed, an item involving exams and early-release transportation; the discussion cited a $5,760 cost, though the transcript does not clearly specify the precise scope of the approved item. The board approved the consent agenda, which included stipends, but the transcript provides no clear spending details. A policy committee discussion of school lunch services policy 3542 was reported, with no specific procurement decision described.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Education, Professional Services
**Topics:** Grants & Funding
**Published:** October 20, 2026

### Sources
- [2026.10.19 Regular BOE Meeting](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MaOMoPpQe3w) - Thomaston Board of Education