Branford, CT – The Branford Board of Education unanimously adopted its Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) budget, Waves of Opportunity, on Wednesday, February 19, 2025. The proposed budget strategically addresses the District’s most pressing needs relating to teaching and learning, school safety and access for all students.
After a complete overhaul of the BOE budget structure, this transparent, reorganized budget balances immediate challenges with long-term goals outlined in the Strategic Coherence Plan (SCP). “By aligning financial planning with our strategic priorities, every dollar invested strengthens our schools and enhances students’ educational experiences,” said BOE Chair Peter Berdon. “Our SCP guides these priorities, reinforcing our commitment to coherence and student success.”
The proposed FY26 budget reflects a 5.8% increase over FY25. This increase is driven by contractual obligations, special education and critical enhancements to address achievement. However, through close partnership with the town, the proposed use of special education Excess Cost funding will help mitigate the impact on the taxpayer during this challenging fiscal year that includes a tax revaluation. Net the additional State revenue, the impact of the proposed budget is 4.6%.
“Our budget prioritizes what’s best for students—preparing them with the knowledge, skills, and resources to thrive,” said Superintendent Christopher Tranberg. “We’ve identified key areas for growth while ensuring fiscal responsibility.”
Prioritized investments in the FY26 budget include:
- Full-Day Pre-K Expansion – Launching at the Indian Neck Campus, this initiative strengthens early literacy, math, and social-emotional development for our youngest learners.
- Math Instructional Enhancements – Adding 2.0 FTE math interventionists and implementing a new elementary math program with high-quality instructional resources and professional development.
- High School Course Expansion – Introducing eight new courses at Branford High School to support post-secondary opportunities, including a robust Health Science Pathway and expanded UConn Early College Experience (ECE) offerings.
- Leader in Me – Implementing a districtwide program inspired by The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, Leader in Me builds students leadership skills and leverages individuals strengths to improve climate and culture.
- Corrects underfunded services – Investing an additional $600,000 in required special education out-of-district expenses, properly funds substitutes and utilities, and addresses growing curriculum and athletics shortfalls.
Strengthening Safety, Support, and Leadership
To enhance student wellness, safety, and leadership, the budget includes:
- Director of Security – Overseeing the newly enhanced security staff, refining protocols, and coordinating with emergency services to ensure a safe learning environment.
- Director of Specialized Instruction – Addressing the growing complexity of special education services, improving in-district programming, ensuring compliance, financial oversight, and equitable support for all students.
- Administrative Restructuring – Expanding the administration at WIS and BHS with a House Principal model, to provide better leadership in instruction and targeted behavioral and special education support.
Building a Strong Future
“By working together we can build a learning community that meets today’s needs and lays a strong foundation for future generations. While we take great pride in our schools, we recognize there is important work ahead to ensure that students’ potential is fully realized and educators’ talents are maximized. With the town’s support, we can seize this wave of opportunity, equipping our students with the skills and knowledge they need to become the leaders of tomorrow.”
The Board of Finance will review the proposed budget in March.
The Board of Education’s budget process and information is available on the Branford Schools website.