OLD SAYBROOK, Conn. (Jan. 27, 2026) — The Old Saybrook Board of Education voted unanimously Tuesday night to adopt its Fiscal Year 2027 budget, advancing a spending plan designed to sustain core district services while supporting early implementation of the district’s new strategic priorities.
The Board’s adopted budget totals $33,182,720, representing a $616,948 increase (7.57%) over the prior year’s approved budget, according to the district’s FY27 budget presentation.
Built around fixed costs and strategic plan priorities
District leaders framed the FY27 budget around three central pressures: fixed costs, supporting the new Strategic Plan, and curriculum development, with a particular emphasis on English-Language Arts (ELA).
The presentation notes the budget development process included discussions with the Board and its Budget and Fiscal Committee, enrollment and program projections, identification of efficiencies, and needs assessments with school-based practitioners.
What makes up the budget
A significant share of the budget is tied to staffing and student services. The presentation indicates Salaries and Benefits represent 78.8% of the total budget, and that Salaries, Benefits, Tuition, and Transportation combined account for $28,414,847 of the overall request.
District leaders also highlighted changing student needs as a key factor in planning. Enrollment totals were presented alongside increases in specialized supports, including Special Education and other student-need indicators.
Investments aligned to learning, facilities, and program readiness
In addition to sustained services, the presentation outlines work connected to academic improvement and the district’s program direction. Curriculum development priorities reference NEASC recommendations, ELA work, updated instructional materials, and time/training supports.
The FY27 plan also includes a proposed capital operating budget with facility and program-related projects across all three schools. Highlighted items include Goodwin School C-Wing flooring and asbestos abatement ($135,662), an Old Saybrook Middle School gym chimney repair ($30,000), and Old Saybrook High School reconfigurations and equipment tied to Allied Health, a Business Center, and a Student Union.
Next steps
With the Board’s unanimous vote, the adopted budget moves forward in the town’s budget process. The district’s presentation emphasizes that the FY27 plan is intended to balance rising fixed costs and contractual obligations with program evaluation and improvements across all three schools while remaining fiscally responsible to taxpayers.