Chandler School District reviews $638M budget amid SPED funding and enrollment declines

The Chandler Unified School District (CUSD) Governing Board held a significant meeting on May 7, 2025, where key discussions centered around budget adjustments and the implications of Proposition 123 on future funding.

During the meeting, Mrs. Barry provided a detailed overview of the district's budget revisions, highlighting the meticulous process of aligning expenditures with revenues. The board reviewed adjustments made to various line items, including transportation costs, special education funding, and the impact of utility price increases. Notably, the district faced a decline in tuition payments for special education, prompting necessary adjustments to both revenue and expenditure projections.

A critical point of discussion was the district's average daily membership, which saw a loss of 28 students. Board members expressed concern over the reasons behind this decline, with factors such as families opting for homeschooling or moving to private schools being noted. The district's leadership acknowledged the challenges in tracking student movement due to restrictions on accessing data from the Arizona Department of Education.

Another pressing topic was the uncertainty surrounding the renewal of Proposition 123, which is set to conclude this year. This proposition has historically provided funding for teacher salaries through state land trust funds. With its expiration, the district will need to source $300 million from the general fund, raising concerns about potential funding shifts towards empowerment scholarship accounts (ESAs). Board members emphasized the importance of separating issues related to teacher pay and ESAs to ensure transparency for voters.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the board to continue monitoring these developments closely, as they directly impact the district's financial health and the quality of education provided to students. As the district navigates these challenges, community engagement and clear communication will be essential in addressing the concerns of parents and educators alike.