High school forum highlights rough budget outlook
By Caitlyn Kelleher JOURNAL REPORTER

Superintendent Michael Zapantis presented a "Then and Now" comparison of what the district was like in 2003 as compared to in 2007 at a March 14 forum hosted by the Oakmont School Improvement Council.

The forum was held as a way to inform people of the upcoming budget requests, which will include an override request in both Ashburnham and Westminster.

"There really is no fluff in the budget," said Denise Noseworthy.

About 25 people, including parents, teachers and students, attended the hour-long forum. Questions and comments ranged from specific budget funding items to the state of the school district.

Noseworthy asked why the district had used all of the Excess and Deficiency money last year instead of asking for a smaller Proposition 2 1/2 override and keeping some money in the account.

Zapantis said the school committee decided it was not sensible to ask for an override when there was $600,000 in the "savings account."

The four students in attendance gave nods of agreement when Zapantis talked about the positive affects of eliminating athletic fees by incorporating the costs of the athletic programs into the district's budget, as well as when school officials talked about how students from other districts want to attend Oakmont.

"We're on top around here," said Rob Deerborn, the freshman class president.

But the students said there are areas where they would like to see more money dedicated.

"Oakmont is kind of behind in (world) languages and music could use more," said Brian Duphily, the sophomore class president. "The override has to get passed."

Attendee Joe Maccahia of Westminster asked how many more students the district can accommodate.

"We have room enough for a significant number of students, but we'd need more staff," Oakmont Principal Jeff Lawrence said.

Overlook and John R. Briggs are both at or past the physical capacity of the buildings, Zapantis said. Meetinghouse and Westminster elementary schools are both close to full capacity, he said.