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To the Editor:

West Hartford prides itself on being among the state’s top school districts. But pride must be matched by priorities. Over the past year the district has had a vote on the Board of Education budget increasing to 7.0% and if proposed, the vote will be passed on March 31. [Editor’s note: The Superintendent of Schools presented the proposed budget to the Board of Education on March 3, and the Board will vote on March 31.]

If this is approved to increase the budget – $14.8 million – critics say, this disproportionately funds non-teaching positions (FTEs) rather than expanding skilled classroom instruction and individualized student supports. Meanwhile long-term growth rates of 5.8% and 7.2% in recent years far exceed the historical 1.9% average. If this trajectory continues – a projected 6.3% annual rise – the budget could double in roughly 12 years, risking townwide fiscal strain.

Parents and taxpayers deserve transparency: How much of the budget directly funds certified teachers, specialists, and targeted interventions such as tutoring and IEP/504 implementation? Right now the district lacks clear reporting on how many students receive proper specialized support, creating accountability gaps and undermining trust.

Before approving the 2026-2027 budget, the Board of Education should commission an independent audit detailing expenditures by role and student outcome, and prioritize funds for proven instructional support. Responsible stewardship means investing in staff who directly improve student learning – not unchecked budget growth.

Respectfully,

Megan Freeman
West Hartford resident