Committee raises preschool tuition to $70 per weekday to offset program costs

The Blackstone-Millville School Committee voted to increase preschool tuition at its Feb. 10 meeting, raising the monthly rate from $60 to $70 for each weekday a child attends.

Matt presented the analysis: projected annual preschool tuition revenue at the current rate was approximately $112,800 while annual preschool operating expenses were roughly $503,130. The recommended $10 increase per weekday was presented as a modest step to help offset program costs and to contribute toward funding a paraeducator position if enrollment and revenues allow.

Members expressed concern about affordability for families, noting poverty and pandemic-related employment impacts in the district, but also recognized that the district currently absorbs a majority of preschool costs. One member noted the district still covers roughly 75–80% of preschool costs even with the increase. After discussion, the motion to increase the tuition passed by a voice vote with no recorded roll-call tally.

Staff said preschool registration forms would be released the next day and that they would monitor enrollment and the need for any lottery if demand exceeds available slots.

The motion will appear in the final FY23 revenue estimates submitted ahead of the March certification and town hearings.