Springfield Holyoke, MA, September 17, 2026 — Governor Maura Healey has named Kristen Smidy, an education professional with extensive experience from western Massachusetts, to the Foundation Budget Review Commission. This appointment marks a step in the process of examining the state’s public school financing mechanisms.

The Foundation Budget Review Commission is tasked with undertaking a comprehensive review of the state’s public school financing formula. A key component of this review will involve an examination of the Chapter 70 formula, which is central to how K-12 education is funded across Massachusetts. The commission’s work is slated to be conducted in relation to the development of the fiscal year 2027 state budget.

Kristen Smidy’s background as an education veteran from western Massachusetts brings specific regional experience to the commission. The establishment and composition of such commissions are critical for ensuring that the state’s educational funding models remain equitable and effective in meeting the needs of students and school districts throughout the Commonwealth. The specific details of Smidy’s past roles or the full composition of the commission were not provided in the summary. The commission’s proceedings and any findings are expected to be part of the broader budgetary discussions for fiscal year 2027.

The Foundation Budget Review Commission’s mandate to re-examine the state’s public school financing structure, including the Chapter 70 formula, underscores the ongoing effort to adapt educational funding to current needs and fiscal realities. The outcome of this review will be closely watched by educators, policymakers, and communities across the state as it shapes future allocations for public education.

Story summarized from the original created by Hanna Guidry, Mark Gardyna on www.westernmassnews.com, see more information here.

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