Dear School Committee Members,
This year’s 2025 fiscal year budget reflects a continued commitment to supporting an efficient and fiscally sound budget that upholds equitable high quality learning experiences. This budget was formulated with input from multiple stakeholders to include teachers, staff, families, and community members. Budgetary priorities are determined by carefully examining student learning achievement and progress (in relation to the Massachusetts Standards) and gauging the need for comprehensive state approved instructional resources. Additionally, the social and emotional needs of our students are considered critical components of our students’ daily learning environment. Overall, our North Star continues to be that students feel like they belong as active and engaged learners in Central Berkshire Schools.
Part of our responsibility as educators is to evaluate potential barriers to learning. As such, any long term impacts due to the varied learning models during the pandemic are part of our equation when formulating a budget. This year, that means approaching student learning in an individualistic manner. A tiered instructional model allows for flexibility around the development of learning support systems that focus on whole class instruction from a highly qualified teacher, intervention instruction as needed, and specialized instruction delivered by our student services support department.
Last year's fiscal year 2024 budget prioritized building and developing systems and structures that closely monitored student learning needs through universal screening measures, a flexible intervention model, professional development, and consistent and proactive communication with our families and community.
This year’s budget continues to support these systems and structures however it is more targeted on the development of a common instructional model entitled The Hallmarks of Effective Instruction. This means that professional development and instructional practices are focused in specific areas as measured by shared understandings of pedagogical practice.
It is important to note that many Central Berkshire resources are supported through grant funding. We are committed to taking advantage of all Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education grants. For example, this year we have embarked on a reading and writing curriculum pilot in order to update our current ELA programming. Our newly formed curriculum council has been awarded grant funding that will support implementation of a new ELA program that will benefit students for years to come.
I am confident that this budget will provide the resources needed to ensure high-quality educational opportunities for all Central Berkshire students. On behalf of the administrative team, we appreciate the dedication and care you show for the students and staff of Central Berkshire Regional School District. I respectfully request your support for the FY25 budget that we are confident will meet the needs of our students, staff, and community.
Respectfully Submitted,
Leslie Blake-Davis