Board Of Ed Adopts Proposed $69M 'Waves Of Opportunity' FY26 Budget

BRANFORD, CT — The Branford Board of Education unanimously adopted its Fiscal Year 2026 budget Feb. 19.

Dubbed 'Waves of Opportunity,' the proposed $69,214,640 budget "strategically addresses the District’s most pressing needs relating to teaching and learning, school safety and access for all students," a statement from the Board reads.

After a complete overhaul of the BOE budget structure, the "transparent, reorganized budget
balances immediate challenges with long-term goals outlined in the Strategic Coherence Plan," the statement reads.

"By aligning financial planning with our strategic priorities, every dollar invested
strengthens our schools and enhances students’ educational experiences," BOE Chair Peter
Berdon said. "Our SCP guides these priorities, reinforcing our commitment to coherence and
student success."

According to the Board, the 5.8 percent increase over FY25 is driven by contractual obligations, special education and critical enhancements to address achievement. However, through close partnership with the town, the proposed use of special education Excess Cost funding will help mitigate the impact on the taxpayer during this challenging fiscal year that includes a tax revaluation. Net the additional State revenue, the impact of the proposed budget is 4.6 percent.

"Our budget prioritizes what’s best for students—preparing them with the knowledge, skills,
and resources to thrive," schools Superintendent Christopher Tranberg said. “We’ve identified key areas for growth while ensuring fiscal responsibility.”

Prioritized investments in the FY26 budget include:
● Full-Day Pre-K Expansion – Launching at the Indian Neck Campus, this initiative
strengthens early literacy, math, and social-emotional development for our youngest
learners.
● Math Instructional Enhancements – Adding 2.0 FTE math interventionists and
implementing a new elementary math program with high-quality instructional resources
and professional development.
● High School Course Expansion – Introducing eight new courses at Branford High School
to support post-secondary opportunities, including a robust Health Science Pathway and
expanded UConn Early College Experience (ECE) offerings.
● Leader in Me – Implementing a districtwide program inspired by The Seven Habits of
Highly Effective People, Leader in Me builds students leadership skills and leverages
individuals strengths to improve climate and culture.

● Corrects underfunded services - Investing an additional $600,000 in required special
education out-of-district expenses, properly funds substitutes and utilities, and
addresses growing curriculum and athletics shortfalls.
Strengthening Safety, Support, and Leadership
To enhance student wellness, safety, and leadership, the budget includes:
● Director of Security – Overseeing the newly enhanced security staff, refining protocols,
and coordinating with emergency services to ensure a safe learning environment.
● Director of Specialized Instruction – Addressing the growing complexity of special
education services, improving in-district programming, ensuring compliance, financial
oversight, and equitable support for all students.
● Administrative Restructuring – Expanding the administration at WIS and BHS with a
House Principal model, to provide better leadership in instruction and targeted
behavioral and special education support.

'Building a Strong Future'

"By working together, we can build a learning community that meets today’s needs and lays a strong foundation for future generations," Tranberg said. "While we take great pride in our schools, we recognize there is important work ahead to ensure that students’ potential is fully realized and educators’ talents are maximized. With the town’s support, we can seize this wave of opportunity, equipping our students with the skills and knowledge they need to become the leaders of tomorrow."

The Board of Finance will review the proposed budget in March.

The Board of Education’s budget process and information is available here.