The city of Danbury has managed to reduce the number of layoffs in the school district thanks to a significant increase in state funds. With $7 million in additional Alliance Grant funds and $12 million in municipal stabilization monies, the city was able to cover a large portion of the $21 million budget shortfall.
Administrators made staffing decisions that involved transferring employees who were on the cut list to vacant positions that were not scheduled for elimination. Additionally, positions were recategorized based on their funding source, with city-funded positions now being supported by Alliance funds.
During a recent Board of Education meeting, leaders shared the latest layoff numbers, staffing decisions, and budget figures. They emphasized the importance of using the additional funds responsibly and not funding positions that could not be supported in the following year.
Around one-third of the additional Alliance funds will go towards staffing, particularly to support teaching positions at Danbury High School as they implement a new academy curriculum model next fall. The remaining funds will be allocated to technology, infrastructure, and other educational costs.
Superintendent Sal Pascarella expressed his commitment to saving as many jobs as possible while ensuring responsible use of the funds. He highlighted the collaboration with the state to ensure that the new teaching positions at Danbury High School will qualify for Alliance Grant support.
Overall, the influx of state funds has provided much-needed relief for the Danbury school district, allowing them to retain staff and invest in educational resources for the upcoming fiscal year.