Politics & Government

Winchester Selectman 'Disappointed' With School Budget

Selectman Doug Marmon does not approve of the size of the school department's proposed budget.

Two weeks ago, the Winchester school department The school district is asking for a 7.36 percent increase over , which would equate to a $2,628,367 increase, making the 2013 school budget $38,349,537.

“We’ve been providing a level services budget,” said Superintendent William McAlduff. “In order to move forward as a district, we need to go above that. We don’t want to be in a position where we’re just maintaining services.”

However, some members of the Board of Selectmen did not agree with the department’s budget.

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“I’m disappointed with the size of the School Committee’s budget,” said Selectman Doug Marmon. “It’s a size I don’t think we’ll be able to fund. It doesn’t seem like we’re on the same page.”

According to McAlduff, in the last 15 years, Winchester went from 3,300 students to 4,400 students. McAlduff said that the number of administrative positions, central office administration and school administration has not changed over that time.

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“We’re seeing continued growth in student enrollment,” McAlduff said. “We have needs beyond level services. Once upon a time Winchester was a small school district with different needs. Now, with 4,440 students, we’re a large district.”

McAlduff recently said that Winchester’s per pupil expenditures are near the bottom in the state. In 2010, Winchester spent $11,356 per student. Neighboring communities – Belmont ($11,609), Concord-Carlisle ($18,872), Lexington ($15,862) and Wellesley ($15.332) – have all spent more than Winchester. The state average, according to McAlduff, is $13,093 per pupil.

“There’s no doubt in my mind that if we want to meet the needs of students that go here, we seriously need to consider an override,” McAlduff said. “I think it’s needed.”

According to selectman chair, Forrest Fontana, Town Manager Richard Howard and McAlduff are discussing the budget, trying to come to an agreement.

“This is beyond what was expected,” said Marmon about the budget.

According to selectman Roger Berman, Governor Deval Patrick recently announced an increase in Chapter 70 funds, but Winchester is still waiting to find out how much funding they will receive.

“We need to find out what the numbers are,” Berman said. “I’m hopeful we can narrow between the Town Manager and the school’s budget.”


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