RSU 3 board approves $23.6M FY27 budget, ratifies contract and advances several agenda items

The RSU 3 school board took a series of formal actions at its regular meeting:

- Budget: The board voted unanimously to approve the fiscal year 2026-27 budget of $23,602,300 as recommended by the finance committee.

- Collective bargaining agreement: After reviewing highlights from negotiations, the board ratified the contract reached with the bargaining unit. Negotiators cited 23 tentative agreements, many language cleanups, targeted wage increases for middle-scale teachers, a $360 contribution toward dental insurance (or equivalent direct payment), and an agreement to revisit the parental-leave pool mechanics in December.

- Program of studies: The board approved the Mountain View High School program of studies for 2026-27, which incorporated course additions recommended by the curriculum committee.

- Hiring authorization: The board authorized the superintendent to hire staff during summer months (July and August) and requested that hire names be brought forward at the next scheduled meeting.

- Advisory committee disbanded: The board disbanded the School Futures advisory committee (formed in January) after confirming that towns affected by closures had moved forward with decisions about building ownership and use.

All votes were recorded as unanimous when a roll or show of hands was taken; the meeting record shows no 'no' votes on the listed items.

What this means: The approved budget establishes district spending for FY27. The ratified contract finalizes compensation and benefit changes negotiated for employees. The program of studies approval updates course offerings for MVHS for the coming school year.