Despite these constraints and the concerning mechanism of funding, the budget I recommended is essentially supported with some amendments. Our budget upholds Newton’s core commitments: a high-quality, equitable education for all; a focus on the whole child; investment in instructional leadership; and support for educators through collaborative professional learning. Significant progress continues on major capital projects—Lincoln-Eliot, Countryside, Franklin, and Horace Mann—all of which will improve learning environments and modernize aging facilities. We are also proud of our progress in sustainability, with the expansion of solar energy systems and our first geothermal school buildings. This budget is not just a financial document—it is a statement of our values. It reflects the collective input of school leaders, families, city officials, and the hundreds of community members who engaged in the development of our new strategic plan and “Portrait of a Learner” framework. It reflects a belief that every Newton student—regardless of background or circumstance—deserves access to enriching, rigorous, and supportive learning experiences. Our schools are part of a larger ecosystem that includes public safety, infrastructure, services for seniors, and libraries. We deeply respect these partnerships and know that our financial needs exist within a broader context. Nonetheless, public education is a foundational public good, and its health is directly tied to the well-being and future of our city. We remain committed to honest dialogue, creative problem-solving, and transparency with our community. It is my hope that this budget, though constrained, will serve as a foundation for continued excellence in our schools—and as a call to action for long-term solutions that ensure Newton Public Schools remains a beacon of educational leadership. Help Students Thrive , Sincerely,
Dr. Anna Nolin Superintendent, Newton Public Schools
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