Brockton reveals $18M school budget deficit in 2023 report

An independent report has revealed a significant $18 million budget deficit in Brockton's school district for the 2023 fiscal year. Conducted by the law firm Nystrom, Beckman, and Paris LLP, the report highlighted a troubling culture within the district characterized by incompetence and inadequate oversight. It criticized the lack of engagement from the Brockton School Committee and city leaders, including Mayor Robert Sullivan, in monitoring the budget created by Superintendent Michael Thomas, who is currently on administrative leave. The report identified key areas of overspending, including personnel costs, transportation, and out-of-district tuition. It accused Thomas of authoritarian management practices and of circumventing necessary checks, such as hiring mentors as independent contractors without proper background checks. Additionally, it raised concerns about his decision to appoint a friend as the transportation director despite a lack of relevant experience. One particularly controversial finding was Thomas's offer of $100,000 to former Patriots player Jermaine Wiggins to coach the Brockton High School football team, a position traditionally held by teachers for a stipend of $15,000. This decision raised eyebrows given the context of the budget deficit. In response to the findings, Mayor Sullivan announced plans for increased oversight of the school district's finances and the implementation of new budgetary safeguards. The report did not indicate any criminal wrongdoing, but it underscored the urgent need for policy updates and a thorough review of financial practices within the district.