SCITUATE - February 2, 2026 - The Scituate School Committee unveiled a proposed $55,029,061 budget for Fiscal Year 2027, representing a 4.57% increase over the current year. The proposal, described as a “level services” budget, prioritizes the district’s ongoing curriculum review cycle and maintains staffing levels as the town prepares for the eventual “sunsetting” of the Cushing and Hatherly elementary schools in 2027.
The Full Story
During a marathon session that included both a regular meeting and a formal public hearing, Interim Superintendent Tom Raab and Interim Director of Finance Irene Houle presented a balanced budget built on $50.3 million in town funding and $4.7 million from state and federal grants. The budget is heavily weighted toward personnel, with 80% allocated to salaries.
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the “Curriculum Management Plan,” with department chairs outlining shifting needs. The district is moving into new implementation phases for elementary science and secondary English Language Arts (ELA). Notably, the high school will add a 0.6 FTE Drama teacher to meet long-standing student interest.
Principals from the four elementary schools highlighted the different trajectories of their buildings. While Cushing and Hatherly are being managed with an eye toward their 2027 closure, Hatherly is experiencing an unexpected “growth spurt,” requiring an additional third-grade section and a new special education teacher. Meanwhile, Jenkins and Wampatuck principals focused on “equity” by slowly replacing aging classroom furniture to match the standards expected in the upcoming new school building.
“Our goal is to operate our buildings safely and effectively during their final years... meeting our family’s expectations that each student should receive a high quality education regardless of the new building project.” [00:17:13] — Kate Ciulla, Cushing Principal
The committee also addressed policy updates, specifically a “Special Waiver Process” for kindergarten entrance. The proposed change would allow children turning five between September 9 and 15 to apply for a waiver, though Committee members expressed concerns regarding class size impacts and the specific criteria for “readiness” screenings.
Why It Matters
For residents, the FY27 budget reflects the cost of maintaining educational quality during a major facilities transition. The 4.57% increase covers contractual salary obligations and critical curriculum updates (like new science materials) without cutting programs. The focus on “equity” in furniture and technology ensures students in older buildings are not left behind as the town invests in a new consolidated elementary school.
Official Minutes & Data
Key Motions & Votes
Motion: Approve the Scituate High School Program of Studies as presented (adding Dramatic Arts courses)
Vote: Unanimous ([00:02:42])
Motion: Approve the Interim Cushing Principal contract for Kate Cuilla (through June 2027)
Vote: Unanimous ([00:04:40])
Motion: Accept a donation of an enclosed trailer from Andrew Scanzillo for the Robotics Team
Vote: Unanimous ([00:08:17])
Motion: Approve the District Needs Assessment contract with First Beacon Group
Vote: Unanimous ([00:17:37])
Motion: Accept $1,400 in donations for the Wrestling Team in memory of Kevin Curtis
Vote: Unanimous ([00:19:46])
Public Comment
No members of the public provided comments during the hearing, though the Superintendent noted the launch of new district social media accounts (Facebook and Instagram) as a move to increase community engagement.
What’s Next
The School Committee will hold a second meeting to finalize the budget and further discuss the kindergarten entrance waiver policy before it moves toward Town Meeting.
Source Videos: Scituate Community Television and Scituate Community Television