School Committee Approves Fee Increases, Stands Firm on Budget
Amherst School Committee voted unanimously to approve fee increases and reaffirmed its full budget proposal. The vote was 4 to 0 for a $1 increase to instrument rental fees, a 50-cent increase to preschool rates, and no change to lunch pricing. Superintendent Dr. Xi argued for the Committee's $5.87
Amherst School Committee Meeting · Meeting of October 13, 2026
Amherst School Committee voted unanimously to approve fee increases and reaffirmed its full budget proposal. The vote was 4 to 0 for a $1 increase to instrument rental fees, a 50-cent increase to preschool rates, and no change to lunch pricing. Superintendent Dr.
Xi argued for the Committee's $5.87 million (5.87%) budget proposal over the proposed lower $3.85 million (3.85%) baseline, citing compliance risk and rising special education caseloads. Teachers and staff offered public comment opposing proposed cuts to special education and reading specialist positions.
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Source: the Amherst School Committee Meeting meeting of October 13, 2026, compiled from the official minutes.
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