Gardner Finance Subcommittee reviews $1.5M budget deficit after cuts
Gardner's School Finance Subcommittee reviewed a FY27 budget retaining a $1,533,366 deficit despite $1,005,106 in proposed cuts. Superintendent Dr. Mark Pellegrino expressed concern that the reductions will negatively affect school accountability ratings and warned of potential impact on
School Subcommittees · Meeting of April 7, 2026
Gardner's School Finance Subcommittee reviewed a FY27 budget retaining a $1,533,366 deficit despite $1,005,106 in proposed cuts. Superintendent Dr. Mark Pellegrino expressed concern that the reductions will negatively affect school accountability ratings and warned of potential impact on Performance Review System complaints, noting the district achieved zero PRS complaints this year for the first time in his tenure.
The subcommittee also examined expense reports showing significant variances: Out of District Tuition down $24,000, Collaboratives Tuition negative $35,000, and Plowing and Sanding negative $60,000. Health insurance costs were identified as the largest budget driver.
In the full story:
- The complete report — 258 words
Source: the School Subcommittees meeting of April 7, 2026, compiled from the official minutes.
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