Hanover School Committee Explores Innovative Funding for Full-Day Kindergarten
Budget Challenges Continue, but Restoration Hopes Emerge
HANOVER - December 19 - The Hanover School Committee is considering a creative approach to implement free full-day kindergarten by leveraging reserves in year one, a move that could increase state aid to the town while providing educational benefits to students and financial relief to families.
During a meeting on Dec. 19, school officials presented a plan to transition from the current fee-based model to a free full-day kindergarten program for the 2025-2026 school year. The change could potentially add $900,000 to the district's foundation budget, increasing state reimbursement.
"From a business perspective, this makes sense," said Mike Oates, Director of Finance for Hanover Public Schools. "As somebody who's been an elementary principal for seven years here in Hanover, 12 years overall, I just feel like this is good for students and families."
The proposal aims to use funds from the district's special education reserve and full-day kindergarten revolving account to cover the initial costs. This strategy would require approval from both the School Committee and Select Board.
Superintendent Matthew Ferron explained the timing of the proposal: "We're really at a point where it's only been the last couple of years that we've been in a position where we'll become a foundation budget district that affords us this opportunity."
The committee also discussed ongoing budget challenges and potential restoration of services through a proposed override. School officials are working to prioritize needs and articulate the impact of various funding levels on educational services.
A "level services" budget projection of $1.4 million was presented, which would maintain current staffing and services. This amount aligns with recent discussions by the Town Manager about potential funding within the levy limit and use of free cash.
However, Committee members expressed concern about the sustainability of using free cash and the need for long-term solutions. Committee member Ryan Hall said, "We're fixing for a year to have the same conversation in FY27. Because the increase in our budget needs, even to maintain level services, will always increase."
A "restoration" budget of $4.3 million was also discussed, which would restore positions cut in previous years. This amount differs from the $3.5 million figure recently mentioned by the Town Manager for school funding in a potential override scenario.
Committee member Libby Corbo emphasized the importance of basing budget decisions on educational needs: "I appreciate that this committee is driven more about how do we create the best learning environment, the best educationally sound budget for our students, then let's fit our ask into this number."
The committee plans to further refine budget proposals, focusing on articulating specific needs and priorities rather than just positions. Ferron stated, "We are ready to act in the service of your interests. And I think we hear what you're saying and we can work to those ends."
As the meeting concluded, Committee Chair Pete Miraglia offered a note of optimism: "In the last two weeks, what I am seeing and hearing gives me hope that there will be an opportunity for a restoration. That was not easy to say, maybe even a month ago."