GPS Update

Dear Grafton Families and Community Members,

As you may be aware, the town is facing a significant budget deficit for FY26 and beyond. To address the anticipated $1.5 million shortfall for FY26, the schools presented a preliminary reduction plan on Tuesday evening. Unfortunately, this plan includes the elimination of 17.3 existing positions, along with three additional positions that would have helped maintain class sizes. For those who are interested in watching the meeting, I have included the link here:

School Committee 2-25-25 (The budget discussion starts at 14:45)

Where possible, we have leveraged retirements and known resignations to minimize job losses. However, despite our best efforts, the plan still necessitates the loss of 10 staff members.

While the challenges of FY26 are substantial, I am even more concerned about the projected reductions of another $1 million or more in FY27. If these reductions come to fruition, they will have an even greater impact on students and staff and could jeopardize our school choice funding—an essential financial lifeline for the past decade.

Over the next month, town leadership and various boards—including the School Committee, Select Board, and Finance Committee—will be actively reviewing these needs and determining the best course of action. I expect ongoing discussions in the coming weeks as they assess the situation and consider the best path forward for the town.

Below you will find two budget-related links:

The FY26 Budget Reduction Document (This includes the reduction plan, and what could lie ahead in the near future)

The Full Preliminary FY26 Budget Book

Please feel free to contact me with any questions. As we move through the budget process I will keep everyone updated.

-Jay

We’re excited to launch the first of what we hope will be many Student and Staff Spotlights in our district newsletter. These features are designed to celebrate the incredible individuals who make our school community special. Our interviewer for this series is Alex Inciong, a talented GHS senior who will be attending Brown University next year.

For our inaugural Student Spotlight, we’re thrilled to feature Santiago “Santi” Bagu, a 6th-grade student at North Street Elementary School. Santi currently serves as the 6th-grade class president, demonstrating strong leadership, a positive attitude, and a commitment to his peers. In his interview, Santi shares insights about his role, his favorite school experiences, and what inspires him both in and out of the classroom.

Stay tuned for more spotlights in future editions as we continue to showcase the voices, achievements, and stories of students and staff across our district!