Stafford Budget Update and Celebration
Dear Parents, Staff and Stafford Community,
I wanted to provide a brief update regarding the budget referendum. As many of you know, yesterday's referendum did not pass. It is anticipated that another referendum will take place later this month. Following the vote, the Board of Finance approved an additional $64,000 reduction to the Board of Education budget.
While this was not the outcome we had hoped for, I remain optimistic. One encouraging sign is that of the approximately 300 new voters who participated compared to the previous referendum, nearly 270 voted in support of the education budget. This reflects a growing recognition within our community of the importance of protecting our schools, avoiding further reductions, and supporting the outstanding work that takes place every day on behalf of our students.
On June 3, the Board of Education met to address the reduction and determined that the best course of action was to reduce the insurance line in the budget by $64,000. Another referendum is anticipated later this month, and we will continue to keep you informed as additional details become available. While there is still work to be done, we are moving closer to the finish line and remain grateful for the support shown by so many members of our community.
At the same time, this is a season for celebration. We celebrate our kindergarten students as they take their first steps toward joining Stafford Elementary School. We celebrate our students in grades 3–8 and grade 11 who demonstrated perseverance and commitment throughout this spring's state assessments. We celebrate our fifth graders as they prepare to move up the hill to Stafford Middle School—and yes, my office is in the same building, so I look forward to seeing them often. We celebrate our eighth graders as they begin the exciting transition to high school.
Most importantly, we celebrate the Class of 2026. This graduating class has established a legacy of scholarship, sportsmanship, hard work, kindness, and citizenship that will leave a lasting impact on our schools and community.
We also celebrate our staff. Whether you are completing your first year in education, your first year in Stafford, preparing for retirement after a distinguished career, or continuing your long-standing service to our students, your dedication makes a difference every single day.
As we approach the end of another school year, there is much to be proud of. While the budget process continues, this is also a time to reflect on the accomplishments of our students, staff, and families and to celebrate the strength of this wonderful community.
Thank you for your continued support of Stafford Public Schools.