Community Budget Forum Planned on New Britain School District Budget Proposal

The Consolidated School District of New Britain is inviting the public to a Community Budget Forum on the school system’s budget for the upcoming 2026-2027 budget year. “Join Superintendent Dr. Tony Gasper for a presentation and community conversation about how the proposed budget supports student needs and district priorities,” the school district says,

The Community Budget Forum is planned for Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 6:00pm in the Smalley Elementary School Media Center.

“This forum provides an opportunity to learn more about the proposal, ask questions, and share feedback before the budget is presented to the New Britain Common Council,” the school district says.

The school district says that, at the Forum, attendees can,

-Learn how the proposed budget supports students and schools
-Share your priorities and perspectives
-Participate in an important community conversation about the future of education in New Britain

In the city budget approved last year, which is the 2025-2026 fiscal year, the operating budget allocation from the city was $128,000,000. The school system’s allocation from the city in past years has been nearly flat funded and significantly less, after inflation is considered.

After the Board of Education and city departments present their budget proposals to the city, the city Board of Finance and Taxation creates a draft city budget. Mayor Bobby Sanchez (D) then presents his proposed budget to the City Council for final consideration. The city budget is typically finalized in late spring.