Duxbury Schools Face Potential Budget Cuts, Implement New Cell Phone Policy

District prepares for financial constraints while addressing classroom distractions

DUXBURY, MA - September 4 - Duxbury Public Schools are bracing for potential budget cuts as the town grapples with financial sustainability issues. At a recent School Committee meeting, Superintendent Dr. Danielle Klingaman outlined the budget constraints for the upcoming fiscal year 2026.

The school district has been directed to prepare two budget scenarios: a level-funded budget with a 2.5% increase and a "conservative department-recommended budget."

"We've reached the point where our 97% real estate tax supporting the entire budget of the town is just not sustainable," Dr. Klingaman said.

The potential budget constraints may lead to cuts across various expenditures. School officials are reviewing all budget lines from the previous year to identify areas for potential trimming.

"We will be looking at cuts across the board in terms of expenditures, looking at all of the budget lines that we had last year to see if there's any places we could trim," Dr. Klingaman stated.

In other business, the School Committee discussed a new cell phone policy that prohibits student use during class time, including academic support periods. The policy aims to reduce distractions and improve student engagement.

Chase Rhinesmith, a student representative from the class of 2025, expressed concerns about the change. "I think where the confusion is is that we weren't granted anything in the policy. It's the lack of clarity," he said.

School Committee member Laurel Deacon emphasized the importance of consistency in implementing the policy. "I think the policy is crystal clear that phones are to be away during class periods." she stated.

The committee plans to review the policy's implementation at the end of October. Dr. Klingaman noted positive feedback from teachers and students about increased engagement in classrooms since the policy's introduction.

The School Committee also discussed goals and action plans for the upcoming year. These documents, which align with the district's strategic plan, will be finalized and voted on at the next meeting.

Dr. Klingaman highlighted the importance of the K-12 Insights Survey, which will be conducted again this year. Plans are being developed to improve communication of survey results to students, staff, and the community.