Brookline schools face $6 million budget shortfall: is a series of layoffs coming?

Brookline schools are facing a tough situation because of a projected $6 million budget shortfall for fiscal year 2026. The difficult circumstances are making global headlines, raising intense fears about programme cuts and layoffs.

The deficit threatens to reduce essential programmes. It is there times larger than last year’s gap. Despite a 2023 tax override that increased property taxes to support the schools, the district is still facing financial strain.

The budget shortfall has been attributed to a combination of factors, including a $3 million revenue shortfall and a $3 million expenditure gap. The rise in expenditure is mainly because of the rising cost of employee health benefits.

These financial pressures come despite the district putting in significant efforts to address funding needs. The deficit has made educators increasingly anxious as they become concerned about potential cuts to staff and programmes.