Ashburnham-Westminster Schools Propose Flat FY2022 Budget, Cut No Programs

WINCHENDON — February 23, 2021 — Ashburnham-Westminster Regional School District proposes a flat fiscal year 2022 budget, down $50,874 — just 0.2 percent — from the current year with no program or staff cuts. Superintendent Stewart and Director of Finance Julie presented the spending plan at a public budget forum on February 23, noting that despite the near-level total, Ashburnham's town assessment will rise $165,829, or 2.1 percent, while Westminster's climbs only $25,585, or 0.2 percent, due to shifts in the state's minimum contribution formula. A pandemic-driven enrollment decline of 103 students — recorded on the state's October 1 count date — reduced state aid to the district, but officials added four elementary teaching positions in anticipation of those students returning. Athletic participation fees, waived this year because of COVID-19 hardships and shortened seasons, are expected to be reinstated for fiscal year 2022. The school committee is set to vote on the budget at its next regular meeting.