
State Fees Impact School Budget
January 25, 2024
• In the wake of a massive hike in special education tuitions last year, the town is being asked to bear another unusually large increase.
When it comes to funding the public education system, the Commonwealth giveth, and the Commonwealth taketh away. While the town receives funding from Massachusetts dedicated to education costs, it is also mandated to pay for the services it receives. One such cost is for out of district special education tuition. Over the last two years, the fee for these services has jumped, putting strain on the budget, and becoming a destabilizing force in the school department’s future financial planning. This has left some calling foul. Municipal Producer Yuxiao Yuan takes a closer look.
More Stories
Despite Ending Campaign, Barr’s Name Remains
March 31, 2025 • The incumbent’s announcement to suspend her campaign poses some logistical complications. When longtime School Committee member...
Connie Barr Ends Campaign for School Committee
March 24, 2025 • At the end of her sixth term on the committee, Barr announced Sunday she would no...
Partnering to Support Students, Build Prevention Programs
March 24, 2025 • Needham Public Schools and the town provide resources for students and families to discuss important topics...
Surveys Indicate Parent-Student Disconnect on Cell Phones
March 19, 2025 • Following research and feedback from the school community, administrators suggested how different grade levels could manage...
A Crowded Race for Needham School Committee
March 17, 2025 • In a highly contested race for School Committee, three incumbents will defend their seats against three...
Commonwealth Reacts to Home Gas Prices
February 28, 2025 • Find out the contributing factors for exceptionally high gas utility bills this winter and ways to...