In an unanimous vote, Dorchester School District Two passed its $143 million budget for 2011-2012 during July's regular meeting.

The number was previously projected and reported at $139 million. Read Journal Scene's story here. However, the new, higher number has finalized adjustments from the state, according to district spokeswoman Pat Raynor. 

"The district is in much better shape than we have been in the last couple years," Raynor said of this year's budget.

Read about Dorchester Two considering a voter referendum for funding future facility projects here.

Numbers released this week say the $143 million budget supports 3,100 certified and support personnel with a monthly payroll of $8.8 million. Last year's student enrollment was 22,633, and this year's budget expends $6,318.21 per student.

According to Raynor, the district school board has approved additional funding for possibly seven new guidance counsellors and 25 new high school teachers.

The current teacher-pupil ratio at grades six and above is 28 to 1.

Dorchester Two has 12 elementary schools, six middle schools, three high schools, one alternative program and one adult education program.