School committee approves $6,850 to support marching band transportation

The Blackstone‑Millville Regional School Committee on Aug. 25 approved a transfer of $6,850 into the district’s band transportation line to support marching‑band travel during the fall season.

Superintendent Jason Defalco told the committee the district received higher‑than‑expected regional transportation reimbursements and that reallocating roughly $6,850 would allow booster fundraising to be used to lower students’ costs for an upcoming spring trip. “Because of the additional funds that we are receiving through transportation reimbursement we do have the money available … to help support the transportation of our band students during the season at about $6,850,” he said.

A motion to move the funds was made on the floor by Dan Keith and seconded (second recorded in the meeting as "Kerry"). Committee members questioned whether the transfer would create a precedent for other groups asking the district to cover travel costs traditionally funded by parent organizations. Supporters said the request is a one‑time use of surplus reimbursement dollars and that the boosters still raise money that benefits the program.

The committee approved the transfer by voice vote; one committee member, Ted (last name not specified in the record), registered an abstention. The committee did not record a roll‑call tally of yes/no votes in the minutes shared at the meeting.

The superintendent said staff will continue to clarify which transportation charges are budgeted under athletics, music or booster‑supported activities and will bring follow‑up information to the committee if needed.