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Eatonville officials report September FTE above budget but warn of cash‑flow squeeze in late spring
Summary
District staff told the school board the September full‑time‑equivalent (FTE) enrollment report came in above budget, but long‑range cash‑flow projections and a slimmer fund balance could force an apportionment advancement next spring.
Eatonville School District officials said the district’s September full‑time‑equivalent enrollment came in higher than the fall budget projection, but cautioned the board that low apportionment payments in May and June could create a serious cash‑flow shortfall.
At the meeting, finance staff presented the state’s FTE summary used to determine funding and explained how alternative learning enrollment (ALE/AOE) and running‑start students are reported differently from basic education counts. The district’s basic education FTE for September was reported as 18.01, compared with a budgeted 17.64 FTE, meaning the district was ahead by about 36.75 students for the month. Staff emphasized monthly averages matter because the state averages enrollment across the year to set final allocations.
The higher September FTE provides short‑term budget relief, but the district’s cash‑flow projection shows apportionment in May and June typically covers only about 56% of expected receipts, leaving the district vulnerable in those months. Finance staff said that because the district no longer carries the larger fund balance it had in earlier years, the district might need an apportionment advancement (an official short‑term cash advance) if the legislature delays state payments again.
Officials also reviewed the district’s closing fiscal‑year cash positions. After liquidating encumbrances the preliminary ending general‑fund balance was roughly $541,000; staff noted final grant claims and late invoices could change that number and said they will provide a final year‑end report in November. The capital projects fund reflects proceeds from a recently finalized limited general‑obligation bond approved by voters; that fund showed roughly $4.8 million on hand with about $5.3 million in encumbrances that will roll into the next year.
Transportation and food‑service funds were reported as showing improved positions after cost‑cutting efforts. The transportation vehicle replacement fund received about $307,000 in depreciation revenue in August, which staff said will go toward purchasing replacement buses in the coming year.
Who said it: Krista (staff member) presented the financial and enrollment material and answered board questions. Board members asked follow‑up about how running‑start and vocational enrollments appear on the report and about contingency plans if apportionment timing worsens.
Why it matters: The district’s ability to maintain payroll and operations through late‑spring apportionment lulls depends on reserve levels or short‑term financing; staff urged continued caution on expenditures and continued advocacy for more stable state funding.
What’s next: Staff will continue closing the fiscal year, file remaining grant claims, and return with a final year‑end report. The board was told staff is coordinating with unions to prepare for possible cash‑flow adjustments and will monitor the legislature’s timing of apportionment payments.
