Cohasset Schools Face $2 Million Gap, Up to 20 Positions at Risk

School Committee · Meeting of February 4, 2026

Cohasset School Committee hears that a nearly $2 million FY27 funding gap could force the elimination of 15 to 20 full-time equivalent positions. Superintendent Dr. Sarah Shannon told the committee Wednesday that even at a 4 percent increase over FY26 levels, the most optimistic projection, developed with the Interim Town Manager, the district would receive roughly $993,233 in additional revenue but still face a level-service deficit of approximately $1,957,286, driven primarily by contractual salary obligations, rising special education tuition and transportation costs, and other inflationary pressures.

The Governor's budget added only about $104,700 in new Chapter 70 funding for Cohasset, and the district receives nothing under the Student Opportunity Act. Shannon outlined possible savings of roughly $200,000 through deferred strategic plan initiatives and $125,000 through stipend and athletics reviews, but said reductions of this magnitude "cannot be absorbed solely through non-staff line items." Committee members cautioned against a rushed override, with Corey Evans urging the board to plan for a comprehensive FY28 override in the fall, and Craig MacLellan noting a town-wide package would stand the best chance of passage. A joint School Committee, Select Board, and Advisory Committee budget meeting is set for February 10, with a public hearing and budget vote scheduled for March 18.

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Source: the School Committee meeting of February 4, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.