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Board of Education

BOF Town Budget Presentation: February 25, 2026

2026-2027 BUDGET

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Letter From the Board Chair and Superintendent

Dear Members of the Orange Community,

The Orange Board of Education is proud to submit the proposed 2026–2027 Orange Public Schools District Budget for your evaluation and consideration. This plan demonstrates our dedication to ensuring that each student receives an exceptional educational experience. The proposed budget totals $25,738,057, reflecting a prudent increase of 2.08%, or $523,903, above the current adjusted budget. This increase appropriately addresses student needs while honoring our responsibility to the taxpayers of Orange.

In light of ongoing economic challenges, including rising insurance costs, increasing utility expenses, and other escalating expenditures, we have developed this budget with careful intent. Recognizing the financial realities facing our community, every determination was guided by the dual priorities of preserving educational quality and maintaining strong fiscal supervision. We have taken deliberate steps to minimize avoidable expenses while continuing to provide students with a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment in which to learn and grow.

This proposal preserves our solid foundation by maintaining current programs, fulfilling contractual commitments, and promoting an inclusive, forward-thinking educational setting for all learners. It advances instructional excellence, supports varied learning needs, and integrates technology to improve student outcomes. Most importantly, it underscores our commitment to thoughtful financial management that aligns with district goals and supports the long-term success of our students and the broader community.

We respectfully present the 2026–2027 budget proposal to the Orange Board of Finance and thank you for your careful consideration and ongoing collaboration. Quality schools are essential to a vibrant community, and together we can ensure that Orange Public Schools continue to uphold the high standards valued by our residents. We appreciate your continued support and dedication to the students and families of Orange.

Sincerely

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ORANGE BOARD OF EDUCATION

Board of Education Members

Mr. Jeffery Cap - Chairperson

Dr. Tatiana Messina Mullen - Vice Chairperson

Mrs. Betty Hadlock - Secretary

Mrs. Lauren Gray

Ms. Ronnette Pompano James

Ms. Susan Riccio

Mr. Anthony Scarinzi

Dr. Erin Wilson

Mrs. Amanda Zapatka

Mr. Ken Ziman

Board of Education Staff

Dr. Vince Scarpetti, Superintendent of Schools

Dr. Evelyn Russo, Director of Curriculum & Personnel

Ms. Christine Koch, Business Manager

Dr. Denise Arterbery, Principal, Turkey Hill School

Mrs. Tricia Lasto, Principal, Peck Place School

Mrs. Elaine Watson, Principal, Mary L. Tracy School

Mrs. Katherine McNeil, Principal, Race Brook School

Mrs. Mary Edo, Director of Special Services

Mr. Michael Gray, Director of Business & Operations

Mr. Neil Armstrong, Int. Director of Technology

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Our Mission is to...

Inspire and empower each student to achieve academic excellence, embrace social and individual responsibility, and lead with integrity.

We believe all individuals should be valued and treated with respect.

“Together WE will make a difference.”

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HIGHLIGHTS: CURRENT YEAR

Continuous Professional Learning and Support for Leaders and Educators
Strengthened Integrated Language Comprehension Instruction
Ongoing School Facility Maintenance and Enhancements
Implementation of a Digital Assessment Platform Aligned with Science of Reading

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OUR GOALS: 2026-2027

Foster engaging, student-centered learning while holding high expectations for every learner
Strengthen student and staff outcomes through intentional investment in curriculum resources and instructional technology
Sustain high-quality instructional approaches while adapting to the evolving needs of students
Support the safety, wellness, and overall welfare of all students and staff

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Enrollment History

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BUDGET SUMMARY

2025-2026 Adopted Budget

$25,214,154

2026-2027 Proposed Budget

$25,738,057

INCREASE: $523,903 2.08%

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BUDGET REQUEST: 2026-2027

2025 - 2026 Adopted Budget: $25,214,154

2026-2027 Proposed Budget: $25,738,057

Proposed Increase: $ 523,903

OF WHICH ….

Salaries $257,447 1.02%

Insurance (Health, GL, WC, Life) $177,534 .70%

Other benefits (S.S., Pension, Disability) $ 30,551 .12%

Technology $ 29,369 .12%

All Other $ 29,002 .12%

TOTAL $523,903 2.08%

% of Proposed

Increase

49%

34%

6%

5%

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SUMMARY - PROPOSED BUDGET

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Budget Drivers: 2026-2027

Salaries & Benefits
Insurance
Technology
Utility Costs

- Classroom Sections
Interns and Substitute Teachers
Science Supplies

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CLOSING COMMENTS

During the 2023 legislative session, lawmakers passed the Right to Read Act, which requires all Connecticut school districts shift to a reading program aligned with the Science of Reading (SOR)

SOR: a body of basic research in developmental psychology, educational psychology, cognitive science, and cognitive neuroscience on reading, one of the most complex human behaviors, and its biological (neural, genetic) bases. This research has been conducted for decades in the United States and around the world. The research has important implications for helping children to succeed.
Our approach is aligned with SOR principles highlighted in the podcast, Sold a Story.

Personnel: Current budget request includes 67 sections

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BUDGET PROCESS

October 2025 - Budget Letters to Administrators
November 2025 - Budgets submitted to Central Office
December 4, 2025 - Capital Plan Items Sent to Town
December 2025 - Budget Meetings held with Administrators
January 29, 2026 - BOE Budget Workshop
February 9, 2026 - BOE Budget Workshop
February 23, 2026 - BOF Budget Presentation
April, 2026 - Town Budget Hearing - TBD
May, 2026 - Annual Town Meeting -TBD
May, 2026 - Town Referendum -TBD

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BUDGET REQUEST