The Dixon Unified School District meeting on November 7, 2024, spotlighted a pressing financial concern: a projected deficit of over $3 million for the 2025-2026 school year. This alarming figure has prompted urgent discussions among board members about potential strategies to address the budget shortfall.

During the meeting, a board member highlighted the importance of evaluating the district's substitute teacher compensation, currently set at $65 per period. While there have been few issues with credentialed teacher substitutes this year, the board acknowledged that this situation could change, necessitating a proactive approach to staffing.

The financial projections presented by the Chief Business Officer (CBO) outlined a multi-year plan, indicating a 6% increase in the budget for the 2023-2024 school year, followed by a 4% increase for 2024-2025. However, the stark reality of a $3,025,695 deficit in 2025-2026 loomed large, prompting discussions on how to either boost revenue or cut costs to mitigate this financial gap.

As the district grapples with these challenges, the board's focus will be on finding sustainable solutions to ensure the financial health of Dixon Unified School District in the coming years. The urgency of the situation underscores the need for strategic planning and community engagement to navigate the fiscal landscape ahead.