SWAMPSCOTT — The School Committee voted unanimously to increase the cost of the district’s integrated preschool program by 8% for fiscal year 2025.
Assistant Superintendent Martha Raymond proposed the increase, which raised the total price for the five-day program from $4,630 to $5,000. Raymond said that even with the increase, the program still remains less expensive than private preschools in the area.
“Obviously, we have to look every single place that we can in order to increase our funding,” Raymond said. “I do think this is an appropriate increase.”
The preschool program is specifically designed to accommodate children with disabilities, however, it is inclusive to all students.
Multiple committee members expressed their support for the recommendation, saying that the program remains a “bargain” even with the price increase.
“The integrated preschool is such an important role for this community to take,” Committee member Glenn Paster said. “It helps students as they get older.”
Committee member Amy O’Connor also praised the program, saying that two of her children attended it.
“I think this is the most amazing program,” O’Connor said.
According to Raymond, the program averages between 60 and 75 students each year. With the five-day program now priced at $5,000, the three-day and two-day programs will cost $3,000 and $2,000, respectively.
The School Committee also reorganized its roles. It voted unanimously to elect Paster as the new chair, replacing Suzanne Wright after a nomination from O’Connor. O’Connor was elected as the committee’s vice chair after nominating herself, replacing John Giantis.
