Marshfield Schools Issue 108 Layoff Notices Ahead of June 15 Budget Vote

MARSHFIELD -- May 12, 2026, Marshfield schools have issued 108 layoff and reassignment notices as a $4.52 million cut deadline approaches. Superintendent Dr. Patrick Sullivan confirmed at the May 12 School Committee meeting that all staff notifications required under contract and state wage law have been delivered ahead of the June 1 deadline, affecting positions across all three tiers of the district's previously workshopped reduction plan, from elementary assistant principals and arts staff to sub-varsity sports and late buses. The town has directed the schools to absorb $4.52 million of a projected $7 million municipal deficit, not including bargaining obligations Sullivan said add to that figure at roughly $100,000 per wage percentage point. Committee members offered personal restoration priorities, Chair Sean Costello and member Rich Greer named elementary assistant principals and arts education; member Ann Stetson flagged social workers and adjustment counselors; member Lauren Dargan said varsity sports should be preserved, possibly through fee-based structures. Voters will choose among three budget options, including a $4 million override, at the June 15 annual town meeting, with any override then requiring a Select Board vote to place it on a special election ballot before September 15.