Newtown School Board Reviews Insurance Costs, Accountability Results And Budget Transfers

NEWTOWN, CT — The Newtown Board of Education reviewed health insurance costs, student performance data and November budget transfers during its regular meeting Dec. 16 at Town Hall.

Chair Alison Plante called the meeting to order at 7:34 p.m. The board unanimously approved its consent agenda, including a donation to Sandy Hook School, a 2027 Newtown High School trip to London, the Loire Valley and Paris, and minutes from the Dec. 2 meeting. Members also voted to add approval of the correspondence report to the agenda.

During public participation, a resident raised concerns about the town’s medical insurance fund and rising premiums, saying long-term deficits have contributed to higher costs for employees.

In reports, Plante thanked Kathy June for her service to Newtown Public Schools, marking her final board meeting before retirement. Superintendent Anne Uberti previewed presentations on medical self-insurance and the state’s Next Generation Accountability results, calling the data “extremely encouraging” and reflective of steady improvement across the district.

Committee updates included discussion of dual enrollment opportunities that allow students to earn college credit and efforts to address chronic absenteeism at Newtown High School. Board members also highlighted recent Veterans Day observances and career day programming at district schools.

Student representatives reported on college admissions decisions, capstone projects, volunteer efforts and the start of winter sports. They also discussed student involvement in community service projects and ongoing conversations within athletics regarding team leadership structures.

The board unanimously approved itemized estimates and budget transfers for the month ending Nov. 30. Business officials said transportation costs have increased, but higher-than-expected state reimbursement through the Excess Cost Grant places the district in a strong financial position. Staffing changes in the business office were also discussed, with administrators noting ongoing efforts to rebalance responsibilities without adding positions.

Finance Director Glenys Salas presented a revised strategic plan for the medical self-insurance fund, addressing premium structure and long-term sustainability. Board members discussed audits, catastrophic coverage and plans to return to the insurance market for the 2026–27 cycle. A vote on the plan is scheduled for January.

Assistant Superintendent Frank Purcaro presented the district’s Next Generation Accountability results, which measure academic achievement, growth, attendance, graduation rates and college and career readiness. The data showed improvement across multiple indicators. Administrators outlined next steps tied to district strategic goals, including continued data analysis, targeted professional learning and staffing additions to support student needs.

The meeting adjourned at 9:22 p.m.