Framingham schools budget calls for cuts, fee hikes

FRAMINGHAM

Framingham Town Meeting has approved a 2008 school budget that calls for eliminating eight teaching positions and increasing athletics and bus fees.

The $83 million budget approved last night will hit some parents in the wallet. The annual school bus fee will increase from $180 to $270 a year, and the athletics fee will increase from $100 a sport to $150 a sport.

"This is another year of reducing services and adding fees and freezing position that we were hoping we wouldn't have to," said Christopher Martes, schools superintendent.

Other cuts include freezing several custodial vacancies, and eliminating a secretary and a teacher's aide position. Textbook purchases will be reduced as will professional development opportunities for teachers. Additionally, elementary school buildings will be closed early after the school day several days a week to save energy.

Martes said most of the staff cuts will be accomplished through attrition though he said one or two layoffs may be necessary.

-- John C. Drake