

The Weekly Update #4
January 23rd, 2025

Superintendent's Message
The Superintendent’s FY26 Proposed Budget, Waves of Opportunity, was presented to the Board of Education on January 22nd. This budget reflects the District’s commitment to creating conditions for the learning community to thrive. Like solving a complex puzzle, this budget reflects the careful effort to fit all the pieces together, ensuring that operational, programmatic, and contractual commitments are fully supported for a successful fiscal year ahead with student learning at the center. The proposed operating budget of $69,886,398 represents a 6.8% increase over the current year.
Budgetary enhancements include a new elementary math program that supports the development of a standards-aligned curriculum and two math interventionists to provide targeted instruction. New and updated courses at BHS increase our Early College Experience (ECE) partnership with the University of Connecticut and increase offerings in Career and Technical Education (CTE). Investments in safety and security and special education also play an important role in the proposed budget. In addition to the FY 26 Operating Budget, the Capital Budget includes a robust plan for the future, addressing well thought out expenditures with a plan for preventive maintenance and facility management.
The budget process ensures that our financial decisions reflect our shared commitment to educational excellence. The next Board of Education Workshop will take place on Wednesday, 2/5/25 at 6:00 p.m. in the Collaboration and Innovation Center (Rm. 112) at Walsh Intermediate School. All budget materials can be found by clicking the budget link from the budget landing page of the BPS website. The budget book is directly available here as well as the presentation.
Sincerely,
Dr. Tranberg
Master Facilities Plan
Stay informed about the Master Facilities Plan and related projects by visiting bpsforward.com. There, you’ll find updates on progress, key documents, and initial proposals.
If you’d like to be involved, upcoming community meetings will provide opportunities for engagement. To receive email updates on project developments, sign up here.
Watch the video below to learn more about the project and the vital role of community input.
The Anxious Generation Book Club
Join Us for The Anxious Generation Book Club!
Are you curious about the impact of cell phones and social media on mental health? Join us for a thoughtful discussion on Jonathan Haidt’s bestselling book, The Anxious Generation, which has sparked conversations nationwide.
📖 Book: The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
📅 Date: February 13, 2025
⏰ Time: 6:30 p.m.
📍 Location: Blackstone Memorial Library
Come share your thoughts, hear different perspectives, and engage in a meaningful conversation about this timely and important topic. For more information, sign up here. We hope to see you there!
MLK Recognition in the Spotlight
On January 20th, Branford welcomed Pulitzer Prize-winning author, Dr. Jeffrey C. Stewart, as guest speaker for the MLK Heritage Foundation’s 40th annual MLK Day Breakfast at Branford High School. The District is a proud partner with the MLK Heritage Foundation for this event that serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of unity and the importance of leading with dignity and purpose. Check out the WTNH video linked below to view coverage of event.
School Meals Report Card Survey
Branford Public Schools has been chosen by Chartwells to participate in the School Meals Report Card Survey. This is a special opportunity for us to gather valuable feedback and insights from the people who matter most: students, parents, families, and staff. The School Meals Report Card survey will provide valuable insights into satisfaction and preferences at both local and national levels. This feedback will enable Chartwells to make meaningful improvements to the District’s meal programs, ensuring they better meet the needs of Branford and the community, and ultimately enhancing K-12 school meal programs nationwide. The survey is completely anonymous and no identifying information will be collected.