Gadsden School District proposes $422M preliminary budget with staffing and funding details

During the Gadsden Independent Schools District (GISD) School Board meeting held on May 23, 2025, significant discussions centered around the approval of the preliminary operating budget for the 2025-2026 school year and the implications of the New Mexico DASH plan.

The proposed budget totals $422 million, with $242 million allocated for operational expenditures. This budget reflects an 8% increase in the state equalization guarantee, amounting to approximately $179.5 million. Notably, the budget includes a precautionary cash reserve of $25.25 million to address uncertainties regarding federal funding sources, such as Title III and Medicaid. The board emphasized the importance of this reserve in maintaining financial stability amid fluctuating funding conditions.

Superintendent Dempsey highlighted that staffing costs, which account for over 66% of budgeted expenditures, are impacted by changes in substitute staffing practices. The budget also complies with legislative salary requirements, including a 4% salary increase for public school personnel and adjustments to salary schedules for certified staff. These changes aim to enhance compensation for educators and support staff, reflecting the district's commitment to attracting and retaining quality personnel.

In addition to budget discussions, the board addressed the implementation of the New Mexico DASH plan, which requires approval before it can be integrated into the budget. This plan is crucial for guiding the district's educational strategies and ensuring alignment with state expectations. The board plans to conduct quarterly updates on the plan's implementation, allowing for ongoing evaluation and adjustments based on feedback from board members and stakeholders.

Another topic of discussion involved the compensation for athletic trainers, with board members expressing concerns about their workload and the need for reasonable scheduling. The district is transitioning to a model where trainers are not required to teach, allowing them to focus solely on their training responsibilities. This change aims to better accommodate the demands placed on trainers while ensuring that student athletes receive the necessary support.

The meeting concluded with a reminder that the preliminary budget requires final approval at the next board meeting on June 12, 2025, before submission to the New Mexico Public Education Department. This timeline underscores the urgency of finalizing the budget to ensure its effectiveness by July 1, 2025.

Overall, the GISD School Board meeting highlighted critical financial planning and strategic initiatives that will shape the district's educational landscape in the coming year. The discussions reflect a proactive approach to budgeting and resource allocation, aimed at enhancing educational outcomes for students in the Gadsden community.