December 13, 2015 Dear Needham Families: Allow me to share a few items of interest: • *School Budget Hearing* The School Committee is currently reviewing a proposed 5.6% increase in the budget for the 2016-17 school year (FY17). The budget plan maintains services in the schools and provides the resources required to address enrollment growth and special education needs. The School Committee is working closely with the school administration, Finance Committee, and Town Manager's office to ensure resources are available to provide a quality educational program for each Needham student. However, it will be a challenge to secure all the resources needed to move school programs forward, especially as the Schools and Town balance a variety of important needs. You may view the presentation I shared with the School Committee recently by clicking the link: Superintendent's Proposed FY17 Budget Presentation to the School Committee <http://rwd1.needham.k12.ma.us/news/documents/FY17%20Budget%20Request%2012-1-15.pdf> You can also review detailed budget information available on the school department's website: FY17 Budget Documents <http://rwd1.needham.k12.ma.us/finance/Budget#FY17> The School Committee encourages you to attend the upcoming *Budget Hearing *scheduled at 7:00 p.m. for Tuesday, January 19th at at Broadmeadow to learn more about the plan and voice your ideas, questions, concerns, and comments. *• Martin Luther King Celebration *Once again this year the schools will partner with the Needham Diversity Committee and Needham Clergy Association to celebrate the life and meaning of Dr. King. Please plan on joining us at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, January 18, 2016 at Needham High School for reflections, poetry, music, and more. *• Superintendent's Blog* My post addresses recent international, national, and local events and can be found on the district's website: Superintendent's Blog <http://npssuperintendent.blogspot.com/> As always, please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments: 781.455.0400, x203 or dan_gutekanst@needham.k12.ma.us Enjoy the upcoming vacation with your children! Dan Gutekanst Superintendent of Schools