The Yuma Elementary School District held its monthly board meeting on September 9, 2025, addressing several key topics, including financial updates, student art recognition, and policy advisories.
One of the highlights of the meeting was the announcement of donations received by various schools within the district. A total of $25,671 was raised this month, contributing to a year-to-date total of $31,376. Notable contributions included $14,541 for Exceptional Student Services and $6,361 for Sunrise School.
The board also recognized the artistic achievements of seventh and eighth graders from Castledome Middle School. Their "I Am" poem art project was showcased, emphasizing self-reflection and personal expression through a blend of poetry and visual art.
In terms of enrollment, the district reported a decrease of 1.8% in student numbers, aligning with budget projections. The board will continue to monitor these figures closely as the Arizona Department of Education finalizes Average Daily Membership (ADM) calculations.
Financial trends were discussed, revealing that the district is approximately 16% through the fiscal year. The board noted that while there have been no significant changes in financial status, contingency funds of $2.6 million in maintenance and operations and $1 million in capital are available if needed.
Additionally, the board conducted a first reading of several policy advisories, which are available for community and employee input on the district's website. These advisories are part of ongoing efforts to update governing policies in response to legal changes.
The meeting concluded with an update on the employee benefit trust, providing insights into the district's employee benefits as of August 28, 2025. The board remains committed to transparency and community engagement as it navigates these important discussions.