ABINGTON - January 27, 2026 - The Abington School Committee revealed a stark financial outlook for Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27), warning that a “level-funded” budget mandate from the town would necessitate cutting approximately 30 staff positions to bridge a $1.76 million shortfall. This potential reduction, representing nearly 10% of the district’s workforce, comes as the Select Board weighs a Proposition 2 ½ override vote for May to address town-wide revenue deficits.
The Full Story
Superintendent Dr. Felicia Moschella and Director of Finance and Operations Sarah Gainey detailed the widening chasm between the cost of maintaining current services and the revenue available under a restricted budget. While the district’s “level-service” budget—the amount needed to replicate current operations next year—is projected at $34.35 million, the town has requested a “level-funded” scenario capped at $32.59 million.
This $1.76 million gap is driven by rising costs in health insurance, special education, transportation, and facilities maintenance. Dr. Moschella emphasized that a cut of this magnitude would impact every school and every student, compromising class sizes, academic supports, and extracurricular programs like athletics and the arts. The district plans to identify the specific positions at risk during the February meeting, with impacted staff receiving preliminary notice before the February vacation.
“30 positions in the Abington Public Schools represents a little under 10% of our staff... it would impact every school and really every child’s experience.” [01:42:56] — Dr. Felicia Moschella
Amidst these fiscal challenges, the Committee voted unanimously to extend Dr. Moschella’s contract through September 1, 2031. Chair Christopher Coyle noted the importance of leadership stability during the “uncertain times” ahead.
The meeting also featured updates on secondary education initiatives, including a new “strict” late-work policy in the History and Business departments designed to foster student accountability. High School Principal Jonathan Bourn also introduced a proposed $200 refundable deposit for students enrolling in Virtual High School (VHS) courses to reduce “buyer’s remorse” and ensure purchased seats do not go to waste.
Why It Matters
For Abington residents, the budget crisis represents a direct threat to the quality of local education and property values. If the proposed override does not pass or if the town cannot find alternative revenue, the district faces a significant “reduction in force.” This would likely lead to larger class sizes, fewer elective offerings at the High School, and a potential rollback of the district’s five-year strategic plan for innovative technology and student support.
Official Minutes & Data
Key Motions & Votes
Motion: To approve the Superintendent’s contract extension through 2031.
Vote: Unanimous ([02:45])
Motion: To approve the High School travel options for 2027 (Japan, Spain, and Panama).
Vote: Unanimous ([01:17:00])
Motion: To approve the FY27 Capital Plan, including critical boiler and roof repairs.
Vote: Unanimous ([02:05:40])
Public Comment
No visitors addressed the committee during the public hearing portion of the meeting.
What’s Next
The School Committee will hold a critical meeting on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, to explicitly name the 30 positions proposed for the “reduction in force” (RIF). An additional meeting has been tentatively scheduled for March 10, 2026, to continue budget deliberations.
Source Video: Abington CAM