State House Overrides Governor's Veto on Milton School Funding

Despite a veto from Governor Charlie Baker, Milton will receive $200,000 from the state for an early literacy program and an extra $1 million for full-day kindergarten.

The funding was originally secured by state Senator Brian Joyce in the Senate budget debate. The veto would have reduced funding for the Kindergarten Expansion Grants program from $18.5 million to $1 million – a $17.5 million cut – which would have cost Milton another $119,600.

The House and Senate each voted unanimously to override the Governor’s veto and restore funding for the Kindergarten Expansion Grants to $18.5 million on Wednesday, ensuring that Milton will again receive $119,600 towards their kindergarten programs. The grants allow local school districts to expand their kindergartens from half-day to full-day classes. Research shows that students who attend full-day kindergarten are more successful academically and better prepared to start first grade. The grants have been highly successful, increasing full-day kindergarten enrollment from 29% to 88% percent between fiscal years 1999 and 2014.

“Children who participate in quality early education programs are more likely to graduate high school and attend college. It also is linked to higher earning capacity later in life,” said Joyce in a release. “I am glad my House and Senate colleagues see the value of these programs and successfully worked to override the Governor’s vetoes.”

Senator Joyce secured $200,000 during the Senate budget debate for an innovative pilot program to increase literacy rates and eliminate proficiency gaps after touring Tucker Elementary School. This veto was overridden by the House and Senate during sessions on Thursday, restoring funding for the program.

In the final FY16 budget, Milton Public Schools will receive $6,060,522 in Chapter 70 funding, the major source of state aid to support public school district operations. This represents an increase of $96,500 over FY15.