Board Member discusses funding disparities and COLA implications for school districts

The San Bernardino County Board meeting on March 10, 2025, focused on several key issues, including budget discussions, collective bargaining processes, and the approval of future meeting schedules.

A significant topic of discussion was the varying ability of school districts to provide cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) to their teachers. Board members explored how factors such as Average Daily Attendance (ADA) and the timing of collective bargaining negotiations impact a district's financial capacity. Some districts, facing declining enrollment, may struggle to offer substantial salary increases, while others may delay negotiations to take advantage of future funding surpluses. The board emphasized the importance of fiscal oversight in ensuring that districts can afford their settlements.

Another point of concern was the drop in spending on books and supplies, which decreased by $3 million. Board members discussed the implications of this reduction, particularly in light of ongoing issues related to book deserts in certain communities. They noted that some of the decrease could be attributed to the shift towards electronic resources, which has reduced the need for traditional supplies. The board expressed a desire to explore ways to support communities in need of more educational resources.

The meeting also included the approval of the County Board meeting schedule for the 2025-2026 fiscal year and discussions regarding the California School Board Association Delegate Assembly. A member raised concerns about a candidate's potential conflicts of interest, leading to an abstention from voting on that item.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the board's commitment to addressing financial challenges within the education system while ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to support students and teachers. The discussions underscored the ongoing need for careful budget management and collaboration among districts to meet the diverse needs of their communities.