Smart Spending & Strong Schools: The Case for Improved Fiscal Responsibility

A school is a place of learning, but it is also so much more—it is a community, a public institution, and, yes, an organization that must operate with financial responsibility, strategic planning, and accountability, much like a business. Schools manage budgets, allocate resources, set goals, measure performance, and ensure efficient operations to best serve students, teachers, and families. Just as in business, strong leadership, clear objectives, and sound decision-making are essential for success.

 

Unfortunately, the business-like approach has not been robust enough in recent years, contributing to significant budget increases. The NBCS budget has grown from $8 million in 2022 to a projected $10.5 million in 2026, while the overall school budget has risen by an average of approximately $1 million per year, climbing from $15.9 million to an estimated $19.9 million in the same period. At the same time, the cost per student has increased dramatically, from $15,615 in 2022 to an estimated $22,983 in 2026. Without stronger financial oversight and strategic planning, these rising costs will continue, placing a growing burden on taxpayers. Recognizing the business aspects of education ensures that we use resources effectively, drive improvements, uphold fiscal responsibility, and keep New Boston affordable while maintaining education excellence and delivering the best possible outcomes for our students.

 

Despite the financial pressures and the overall budget brought forward for 2026, supporting Warrant Article 3 – the Teacher Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) – is crucial to attracting and retaining high-quality educators.