Dear Needham Public Schools Families: A belated Happy New Year to you and your families! Allow me to share a few updates: • *2020-21 (FY21) School Budget & Hearing* The School Committee is currently reviewing a proposed 6.5% increase in the budget for the 2020-21 school year (FY21). *The School Committee will hold a Budget Hearing on Tuesday, January 21st at Broadmeadow beginning at 7:00 p.m.* The budget plan includes resources to address our strategic plan, the Portrait of a Needham Graduate, and ensure equity and access in our schools. You can also review detailed budget information available on the school department's website: NPS FY21 Budget Documents <http://www.needham.k12.ma.us/cms/One.aspx?portalId=64513&pageId=926906#F21> Community members and parents are encouraged to attend and share comments about the budget plan at next Tuesday's hearing. Your voice is important and it matters! *• Superintendent's Blog* My recent post summarizes the school budget plan and provides additional links to information and resources: The FY2020-21 Needham Public Schools Budget Proposal <http://npssuperintendent.blogspot.com/> *• Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration *Once again this year the schools will partner with the Needham Diversity Committee, Needham Clergy Association, and Needham Human Rights Commission to celebrate the life of Dr. King. Please plan on joining us at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, January 20, 2020 at Pollard for reflections, poetry, music, and more. As always, please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments: 781.455.0400, extension 11203 or dan_gutekanst@needham.k12.ma.us Best wishes for a happy and healthy 2020! Dan Gutekanst Superintendent of Schools