Ex-School Director Questions Leadership Over Bensalem Budget Deficit

BENSALEM TOWNSHIP, PA — A former township school director and councilwoman is calling for "experienced leadership" to lead the district out of its "severe financial crisis."

Michelle Benitez — who lost her council re-election bid as a Republican in last November's general election — is criticizing the current Democratic-controlled school board for shifting the blame on whose responsible for the 2026-2027 budget deficit.

"There’s also a growing sense that too much focus is being placed on politics and blame, rather than solutions," she said. "Collaboration is key, but balancing the budget is the school board’s responsibility. That burden can’t be shifted to police, the township, donors, or taxpayers already contributing. Our schools need experienced, transparent leadership focused on long-term stability. It’s time to refocus and move forward for our students and our community. Elections matter, and now we are facing the consequences."

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"The financial challenges facing the Bensalem School District should concern all of us," Benitez said. "After recent furloughs, we still face a significant budget deficit, this is a time for steady leadership, collaboration, and a clear path forward."

The school district faces a $2.7 million deficit in the 2026-2027 school budget, which the school board will vote on at its meeting on June 29.

The school board appointed an interim schools superintendent, thrusting Victoria Velasquez into the spotlight of a school district struggling to reduce a 2026-2027 school budget and a deficit of $15-16 million.

In her first meeting in her new post, the Bensalem School Board approved eliminating 31 teacher, administrative, and staffing positions.

"A school board’s role is to oversee finances, set policy, and make decisions in the best interest of students, staff, and taxpayers. Right now, there are real concerns about the level of focus and direction being provided," Benitez said. "Many may not realize how serious things are becoming."

Benitez said that ongoing turnover and resignations can increase costs due to existing contracts adding further financial strain.