New Fairfield School District

This Program of Studies serves as a comprehensive guide for New Fairfield High School students to plan their academic future and shape their post-graduation pathways. It encourages students to explore their interests and strengths through a balanced and rigorous curriculum, fostering resilience and versatility. Key priorities include promoting informed decision-making in course selection, detailing graduation requirements and academic programs, and outlining specialized pathways in Allied Health and Arts & Design. The intended outcome is to prepare students for college and career readiness by leveraging the diverse educational offerings and resources available.

This document, primarily the New Fairfield Public Schools' 2026-2027 recommended budget, is grounded in the district's mission, vision, and strategic plan. It details key District Priorities across curriculum, instruction, special education, wellness, attendance, and resource management, aiming to foster continuous improvement and fiscal responsibility. Additionally, it includes a Capital Improvement Plan spanning 2024-2034, focusing on long-term facility enhancements and strategic investments to support an environment conducive to student achievement and well-being.

This document outlines the district priorities for New Fairfield Public Schools for the 2025-2026 academic year. Key areas of focus include curriculum review and design, instructional practices enhancement with an emphasis on critical thinking and AI tools, and improvements in special education through stronger parent partnerships, redefined staff roles, and restructured programs. The plan also addresses student wellness, chronic absenteeism reduction, and strategic management of resources covering finance, transportation, facilities, human resources, and technology to support learning and operational efficiency.

The Board of Education discussed the budget, including the BOF's vote to add funds back to the BOE Operating Budget, offset by using bond premium. The overall budget remained at a 4.27% increase. The BOE is facing a reduction in certified and non-certified staff, and the stadium track/turf replacement will not proceed this summer. The use of debt premium for the FY 25 budget leaves limited funds for FY 26, potentially causing a significant budget increase. Structural issues include a lack of capital budget funding, cumulative operating budget cuts, and debt service constraints. Underfunding the budget is expected to negatively impact future budgets, particularly with the need to replace an oil tank. The proposed remedy involves restoring the BOE Adopted Operating Budget and addressing structural issues with the Capital Budget and use of Debt Premium.

The meeting addressed the impact of budget cuts on the operating and capital budgets. Discussions included the cumulative effect of reductions, potential staffing reductions, and the impact on class sizes and programs. Two budget cut proposals were presented, detailing specific reductions and their effects. The impact of cuts to the capital plan, including deferring essential replacements and construction projects, was also discussed.