Town Meeting members voted to approve a $75,613,973 budget for Milton Public Schools for fiscal year 2027, representing a 3.76% increase over the previous year. School Committee Chair Mark Luring introduced the budget by noting that the district's finances have stabilized, ending the current year with a projected $35,000 surplus. This stability follows recent efforts by the Warrant Committee to resolve a $1 million gap in the FY27 budget through reduced reserve savings and headcount adjustments.

The discussion featured a sharp divide between officials highlighting student achievements and members questioning academic metrics. Interim Superintendent John Failen outlined five strategic priorities, including early literacy and safety, while noting that students learn significantly through athletics and drama and band alongside classroom instruction. However, Precinct Member Robert Hiss presented data showing a decline in MCAS scores since 2019, noting that English proficiency dropped from 71% to 64% and math from 69% to 60%, despite per-pupil spending rising to over $20,000. Precinct 7 Member Cindy Christensen echoed these concerns, stating, I believe we need a forensic audit of the school budget. I also think we need an efficiency study. I think a 3.6% increase is excessive.

To meet budget targets, Superintendent Failen confirmed the district has already made difficult cuts, including the elimination of a Director of Data and Analytics and several teaching positions. While some members warned of the burden on seniors on fixed incomes and cautioned against incessant overrides, others defended the schools' rigor. Precinct 9 Member Sarah Lovely noted that 90% of graduates attend four-year colleges, and Member James Jenkins argued that education should not be viewed through a capitalistic consumer model, stating, The product is the child.

Motion: That the town appropriate the amounts shown in the following tabulation under the heading recommendation fiscal year 2027 as set forth in the warrant and that to meet said appropriation, a sum of $75,613,973 be raised from the tax levy.

Vote: Passed 200-4-2