Each spring, the development of the school district budget brings an important conversation to our community. As superintendent, I understand that our schools represent both one of Granby’s greatest strengths and one of the largest investments our taxpayers make each year. Our responsibility is clear: to provide the best possible opportunities for our students while being thoughtful stewards of public resources.
For the 2026–27 school year, the proposed board of education operating budget is $40,916,434, representing a 3.8 percent increase over the current year. While any increase deserves careful review, most of this change reflects costs that school districts across Connecticut are experiencing today.
Meeting the needs of today’s students
Public education continues to evolve. Students arrive in our classrooms with a wide range of academic, social and emotional needs, and schools must respond with appropriate supports and services.
Much of this year’s increase reflects contractual salary and benefit obligations as well as growth in special education services required to meet student needs. These services are essential to ensuring every child receives the support necessary to succeed.
Despite these pressures, Granby continues to operate efficiently compared with many districts. Our per-pupil spending of approximately $21,748 remains below both state and DRG (Diagnosis-Related Groups) averages, demonstrating our commitment to delivering strong educational outcomes while managing resources responsibly.
Targeted investments that matter
In developing this year’s budget, we worked carefully to limit new spending wherever possible. In fact, the only new position proposed is a certified reading intervention teacher at Granby Memorial Middle School, fully funded through grants in the Quality and Diversity Fund.
Middle school is a pivotal time in a student’s academic journey. Strengthening literacy skills during these years helps ensure students are prepared for the demands of high school and future opportunities. This targeted support allows us to address a clear student need while maintaining a disciplined approach to staffing.
Innovative programs that reduce costs and generate revenue
In recent years, Granby Public Schools has focused on developing programs that allow us to serve students within our own district rather than sending them to costly out-of-district placements.
Two examples are the B.E.A.R. Transition Academy and the newly developed Granby Alternative Program (GAP). These programs provide specialized support for students who benefit from alternative learning environments while allowing them to remain connected to their home community and schools.
When districts send students to outside placements, tuition costs can be significant. By creating high-quality programs here in Granby, we are able to meet student needs while reducing those expenses.
Just as importantly, these programs are attracting students from other districts who pay tuition to attend. That tuition revenue comes directly back to the Town of Granby, helping offset operational expenses and reducing the burden on local taxpayers. These programs represent the best of what public education can do: better support for students, lower costs and new revenue that benefits the entire community.
A shared community investment
Granby’s schools succeed because of the partnership between educators, families and the broader community. Our schools are supported by residents of all ages—parents, grandparents, neighbors and community members who understand that strong schools contribute to a vibrant town.
Because of the additional revenue generated through our innovative programs and other reimbursements, the net impact of this budget on taxpayers is approximately 2.65 percent. This reflects our continued effort to stretch every dollar while maintaining excellent opportunities for students.
As we move through the town’s budget process, I encourage residents to stay informed and engaged. Together, we can continue supporting the success of every Granby student while being responsible stewards of the community’s investment.
All budget information can be found on our website: granbyschools.org