Ridgefield, CT: SPED spending shows deficit of just over $170,000

Jan 9, 2026, Patch: Ridgefield Schools Track On Budget Through December, Special Education Costs Remain Key Variable

https://patch.com/connecticut/ridgefield/amp/33476850/ridgefield-schools-track-on-budget-through-december-special-education-costs-remain-key-variable 

Ridgefield school officials report midyear budget remains on track, with special education costs and health benefits closely monitored.

The Ridgefield Board of Education’s Budget, Finance and Operations Committee received a midyear financial update Thursday showing the district largely on track through the second quarter, while special education costs and employee benefits remained key variables as planning for the 2026-27 budget continues.

Ridgefield Public Schools Finance Director Jill Browne reported that as of Dec. 31, the district had obligated about 96.7% of its approved operating budget, a level she said is consistent with expectations halfway through the fiscal year.

“We’re right where we need to be,” Browne told committee members.

Special education pressures

Special education spending showed a projected deficit of just over $170,000 at the end of December, an increase from roughly $49,000 a month earlier. Browne said the increase was driven primarily by related services, including outside paraeducator support and speech and language services that exceed current staffing capacity. She added that services are monitored closely and purchase orders are closed promptly when services end.

Superintendent Susie De Silva said volatility in special education spending is also influenced by student transfers into the district, particularly students with complex needs who may require additional services or specialized placements.

Despite the overage, Browne said the district is expected to receive approximately $1.2 million in state excess cost reimbursement this year — higher than the $900,000 anticipated during budget development. The increase reflects a higher state reimbursement percentage than originally projected, following additional funding added to the state’s excess cost pool. .

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