Montpelier Roxbury Public Schools Board Approves 5.8% Budget Increase for 2025–26 School Year
On March 4, the Montpelier Roxbury Public Schools (MRPS) Board made a significant decision that will impact the educational landscape of Montpelier and Roxbury for the upcoming school year. They presented a $32.6 million budget to the voters, reflecting a 5.8% increase from the current year. This proposed budget, while maintaining existing services, is primarily driven by the rise in salaries and benefits, accounting for 75% of all MRPS expenses for the next academic year.
Salaries for various personnel, including teachers, instructional assistants, support staff, and administrators, have seen a 5.9% increase. Additionally, the cost of employee benefits has surged by 12.6%. These adjustments aim to ensure competitive compensation and support for the dedicated individuals shaping the educational experience within the district.
A significant development preceding this budget approval was the review of a three-year contract with MRPS Superintendent Libby Bonesteel on February 5. The contract outlined a salary of $180,000 for the 2025–26 school year, with a minimum 3% annual salary increase in the subsequent two years. This strategic decision underscores the commitment of the board to retaining top talent and fostering stability in district leadership.
While the $2 million budget hike may raise concerns about potential property tax increases, it is important to note that the final impact on tax rates remains uncertain at this stage. The determination of tax rates awaits the setting of the “yield” number by the legislature later in the year, a process that introduces variables and complexities into the equation. Members of the MRPS board have acknowledged the intricacies of this process in previous meetings, recognizing the challenges posed by the evolving financial landscape.
Looking ahead, the district estimates that the proposed budget for 2025–26, if ratified, will lead to a per pupil education spending of approximately $14,800, marking a 7.6% increase from the current year. Despite this growth in spending, non-tax revenues in the budget are projected to experience a 12% decline compared to the previous fiscal period, reflecting a multifaceted financial strategy aimed at balancing resources and priorities.
In a broader context, the MRPS district’s budget deliberations align with broader trends in Vermont, where some school districts have encountered resistance from voters due to escalating property tax burdens. Last year, a significant portion of Vermonters rejected school budgets amid double-digit tax hikes, underscoring the delicate balance between educational funding and taxpayer affordability. Despite facing challenges, the MRPS district navigated these dynamics by passing a reduced budget proposal, although Montpelier taxpayers were still confronted with a 13% increase in property tax rates upon successful passage on the second attempt.
Reflecting on the upcoming budget, MRPS Superintendent Libby Bonsteel emphasized the district’s commitment to fiscal prudence and accountability in a video series accessible on the MRPS website. Acknowledging the cumulative impact of successive budget adjustments, Bonsteel highlighted the importance of being mindful of taxpayers’ investment in the educational system, underscoring a shared responsibility towards financial stewardship.
As the community prepares for the upcoming decisions, voters in the district will also have the opportunity to weigh in on various articles, including the selection of key administrative roles and MRPS board members. The engagement of stakeholders in shaping the educational landscape is crucial for fostering transparency and accountability within the district.
For those interested in delving deeper into the budget details and discussions, all relevant documents can be accessed on the MRPS website at mrpsvt.org/budget. Additionally, an informational session on the proposed budget is scheduled for March 3, preceding Town Meeting Day, offering an interactive platform for community members to gain insights and raise queries.
In conclusion, the approval of the 5.8% budget increase by the MRPS Board represents a pivotal moment in the educational journey of Montpelier and Roxbury. As the district navigates the complex interplay of financial considerations, educational priorities, and community expectations, the collective efforts of stakeholders will shape the future of learning and growth within the region. Stay engaged, stay informed, and let your voice be heard in shaping the educational narrative of tomorrow.
