On Saturday, March 15 at 9 a.m., Hopkinton voters head to the annual School District Meeting. The School Board has proposed and the Budget Committee has unanimously recommended an increase to the operating budget of 2.29%. That increase is entirely driven by a significant uptick in special education costs, which are rising across New Hampshire. In fact, with increased special education costs removed, the operating budget would actually shrink! I expect that, once again this year, an amendment will be proposed to level-fund the School District. This is the so-called “flat budget.” Voters should remember that special education costs are mandated by federal and state law and largely out of the District’s control. If the “flat budget” is adopted, the reductions will not come out of special education — nor should they. Instead, we’ll see cuts to classroom positions and/or core programs like athletics and the arts. As you make your decision on the proposed operating budget, keep in mind that a “flat budget” in March means a different school system in August. Please vote yes on the School Board’s proposal, as recommended by the Budget Committee.

Sarah Mattson Dustin

Contoocook