School Committee Defers Budget Vote on School Consolidation Plan
Amherst School Committee deferred a vote on the FY27 budget after a public hearing on proposed consolidation savings. The draft budget, proposing a 3.85 percent increase to serve 1,049 students, includes reductions of 4.0 special education teachers, 2.5 intervention staff, and 4.5 specials
Amherst School Committee Meeting · Meeting of September 15, 2026
Amherst School Committee deferred a vote on the FY27 budget after a public hearing on proposed consolidation savings. The draft budget, proposing a 3.85 percent increase to serve 1,049 students, includes reductions of 4.0 special education teachers, 2.5 intervention staff, and 4.5 specials positions, along with the closure of Fort River and Wildwood elementary schools. Executive Director of Finance Shannon Bernacchia presented the plan incorporating $1.06 million in external funding.
Over 57 residents, including teachers and parents, warned the cuts would harm struggling and vulnerable students, increase caseloads, and undermine student services. Committee members requested cost-center breakdowns and tiered restoration options before voting March 24.
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Source: the Amherst School Committee Meeting meeting of September 15, 2026, compiled from the official minutes.
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