Frequently Asked Questions
Strategic Vision & Multi-Year Planning
What is the overall goal of the FY 2027 budget?
The FY 2026–27 “Emerging Needs Budget” is a disciplined roadmap and the first phase of a multi-year framework that balances strong student outcomes with fiscal accountability. It serves as a strategic bridge between the district’s current performance and its long-term goals.
What is the guiding motto for this financial plan?
“Ambitious for our students, disciplined with our resources.”
What are “Strategic Investments” in this context?
Strategic Investments refer to new programs or identified needs that are not included in the current proposal in order to maintain fiscal discipline, but remain priorities for future consideration. These include additional behavioral staff, math specialists, and social workers.
Financial Resilience & Taxpayer Impact
How will this budget impact local property taxes?
The proposed budget requires $55,939,577 in tax revenue, resulting in a 4.98% increase. This is below the projected “roll-forward” increase of 5.56% needed to maintain current service levels.
How is the district providing tax relief to residents?
The district is applying $3,000,000 from its undesignated fund balance to reduce the tax burden. This strategic use of reserves allows the district to address emerging needs while keeping the increase below prior-year levels.
What are the primary cost drivers behind the increase?
The budget reflects rising costs associated with operating a district of more than 550 employees. Key drivers include contractual salary increases and a projected 12.5% rise in health insurance premiums.
What is the purpose of the Special Education Reserve Fund?
Established under Article 11, this fund stabilizes the budget against unpredictable, high-cost services, including specialized programming and out-of-district placements.
Classroom Excellence & Student Outcomes
What steps are being taken to manage class sizes?
The budget includes four new elementary teaching positions: a 4th-grade teacher at KCS, a 2nd-grade teacher at KES, and additional positions at SRS and MLD to support targeted student needs. At KES, this will reduce 2nd-grade class sizes to approximately 17–18 students.
What new curriculum resources are included?
The proposal invests in districtwide phonics resources and assessment tools to strengthen early literacy.
How does the budget support student mental health and attendance?
The district is expanding Social Emotional Learning (SEL) resources, including Responsive Classroom, Character Strong, and Restorative Practices. It also continues the BARR model, which has reduced 9th-grade chronic absenteeism by 44%.
What is the SAIL program for Gifted and Talented students?
SAIL supports the academic and social-emotional needs of identified students. Currently, 9–11% of students qualify for services, compared to a state benchmark of 3–5%.
Operational Efficiency & Workforce Management
How did the Efficiency Assessment Audit influence the budget?
Findings from an external audit by the Zeal Education Group informed staffing and resource allocation decisions. This data-driven approach supports high standards while resulting in a net reduction in total Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) positions.
How is the district supporting teacher excellence and retention?
The budget increases funding for professional development aligned with the updated Professional Evaluation and Professional Growth (PEPG) plan and raises stipends for teachers earning National Board Certification.
Infrastructure, Safety & Technology
What is the district’s approach to building maintenance?
RSU 21 is shifting from reactive to proactive maintenance through a structured Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and Capital Maintenance Program (CMP).
What facilities projects are prioritized for FY 2027?
Key projects include replacing a 1996 boiler at Kennebunkport Consolidated School ($150,000), residing the Transportation building ($80,000), and repainting the Kennebunk High School gym floor ($35,000).
Are there planned improvements to safety and security?
Yes. The budget includes a 6% increase in security spending, including new playground fencing at KCS and KES and a $33,356 increase for School Resource Officers (SROs).
How is classroom technology being updated?
The district will maintain its 1:1 Chromebook program and continue replacing aging interactive whiteboards, targeting 20 classrooms at KCS and 25 at Sea Road School this year.
What investments are being made in transportation?
Using the Capital Reserve Fund, the district will replace three Type C school buses ($465,000) and add two multi-function buses for student trips ($201,000).
Nutrition & Student Services
Will students continue to receive free school meals?
Yes. Maine provides free school meals to all public school students. RSU 21 is also pursuing recognition as one of “America’s Healthiest Schools” by maintaining high nutritional standards.
How are Section 504 services supported?
The district serves 193 students with active Section 504 Plans. A dedicated coordinator oversees compliance, facilitates meetings, and ensures equitable access for students with disabilities.
How does school spending impact the local economy?
Research from the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) indicates that each $1 increase in per-pupil spending is associated with an approximate $20 increase in local property values. Additionally, every 100 school-based jobs support an estimated 60–65 additional jobs in the local economy.