Benicia School District proposes $2.5M budget cuts amid growing deficit concerns

Benicia Unified School District (BUSD) is taking significant steps to address its projected $3 million deficit this year and an anticipated $2 million shortfall next year. During the board meeting on February 20, 2025, district officials proposed a plan to reduce spending by $2.5 million, which includes cutting $715,000 from one-time funding sources and reallocating approximately $1.8 million from the general fund.

The district has relied heavily on one-time COVID relief funds, totaling around $14 million since 2020, to support various programs aimed at helping students recover from pandemic-related learning losses. However, as these funds dwindle, BUSD faces tough decisions about which programs to sustain. The proposal discussed at the meeting aims to maintain essential services for one more school year, but without new funding sources, many programs may be discontinued after that.

Key programs at risk include a 20% math coaching position at Benicia Middle School, support for new teachers, and wellness initiatives funded through these one-time grants. The district is also required to contract with the Benicia City Library for librarian services, which costs $25,000 annually, highlighting the need for ongoing funding solutions.

To achieve the proposed savings, BUSD plans to eliminate several unfilled positions and reduce staff through attrition. This includes cutting positions in special education and administrative roles, which could potentially impact five to six staff members. The district is required to notify affected employees by March 15, with a final decision on layoffs expected by May 15, depending on enrollment trends.

As BUSD navigates these financial challenges, the board emphasized the importance of minimizing the impact on staff while ensuring that students continue to receive quality education and support. The district will continue to explore funding options and monitor enrollment to potentially reinstate positions if circumstances allow.