Superintendent Larry Berger said this potential shortfall is based on current law, meaning the current funding available at the state level stays the same throughout the remainder of the legislative session.
The overview
The district is projecting nearly $211 million in revenues and $2 million in savings, which paired with $221.6 million in expenses, results in a shortfall of over $8.6 million for FY 2025-26, according to district documents.
The shortfall also includes a 2% general pay increase with adjustments.
Officials also presented the following scenarios to the board of trustees at its April 8 meeting for future consideration:
- 3% GPI increase with adjustments, which would result in a $10 million shortfall
- 3% for teachers and 2% for all other staff, which would result in a $9.7 million shortfall
Also of note
Berger also explained how the district is funded, which is through local, state and federal revenue.
He said while state revenue is projected to rise for FY 2025-26, federal revenue will fall by nearly 9%. This includes losing funding for school health and related services, and Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund.
District officials and trustees will discuss the budget further on the following dates:
- May 13: budget workshop No. 2
- June 10: approve staff compensation plan
- June 24: budget adoption, public hearing on tax rate
- August 12: adopt tax rate
