Chandler Unified School District revises budget reflecting significant student enrollment drop

The Chandler Unified School District (CUSD) Governing Board convened on May 7, 2025, for a study session and regular business meeting, focusing primarily on the revision of the district's budget for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. This meeting marked the final opportunity for budget adjustments before the upcoming fiscal year.

The session began with a review of the budget revision process, which is mandated by state law. The district's budget is heavily influenced by student enrollment numbers, which determine funding levels. The board was informed that the average daily membership (ADM) had decreased significantly, with a total reduction of 1,118 students compared to the previous year. This decline resulted in a funding adjustment of approximately $759,911.

The discussion highlighted the complexities of funding calculations, particularly how funding is allocated based on student attendance from the first 100 days of the school year. The board noted that kindergarten students receive only half the funding compared to older students, further complicating the financial landscape.

Key figures presented included a base support level adjustment, which decreased from $241,741,004.42 to $240,981,531 due to the drop in ADM. The board also discussed various funding weights for special categories, such as English language learners and students with disabilities, which further impacted the budget.

In addition to the ADM-related adjustments, the board addressed changes in federal and state grants. Notably, there were decreases in Title 1 and Title 2 funding, while some state grants saw slight increases. The board emphasized the importance of accurate projections and the need to adjust budgets based on actual expenditures and carryover amounts.

The meeting concluded with a summary of the overall budget revision, which increased from $636,339,993 in December to $638,694,383, reflecting an increase of $2,354,390. The board expressed gratitude for the efforts of the finance team in preparing the budget and ensuring compliance with state regulations.

As the meeting wrapped up, the board acknowledged the ongoing challenges posed by fluctuating student enrollment and the need for continued advocacy for adequate funding from state legislators. The next steps will involve finalizing the budget and preparing for the upcoming fiscal year, with a focus on maintaining educational quality despite financial constraints.