SAUGUS, Mass. (AP) – The School Committee approved a balanced $21.3 million budget Thursday. But it accomplished it by eliminating all school athletics and extracurricular activities.

“I can’t tell you how angry I am or how upset I am,” said Superintendent Keith Manville before presenting his budge proposal. “I did not come to Saugus to dismantle the School Department, but that’s what I’ve done.”

Manville said he was forced to cut out sports and other activities to meet a budget approved at Town Meeting last month.

“There will be no athletics, no band, no drama, no Moving On ceremony at the middle school,” Manville said. “It will be 8-to-2 and go home. Come back again at 8.”

Athletic Director and Vice Principal Matt Poska resigned earlier Thursday, and Manville he would not hire a replacement “since we don’t have any sports.”

In announcing a number of department cutbacks, Manville revealed that all school transportation would be cut, except services that are required by law.

The situation could change if the state steps in, although Manville said he is not counting on help from Beacon hill.

Local officials have been told the town is on Gov. Mitt Romney’s list for additional state aid, but they’ve also been warned not to count on that, according to The Daily Item of Lynn.

School Committee Chairman John Serino said he had been told lawmakers want to use the money to replenish the state’s rainy day fund.

“Well it’s pouring here in Saugus,” Serino said. “Please call your representatives.”

AP-ES-07-09-04 0603EDT