Trustees approve budget amendments; board members raise concern about JSTEM and CTE cuts

Trustees voted to approve attached budget amendments for the 2025–26 fiscal year as presented, but the meeting exposed trustee concerns that central and campus budget reductions could weaken the district’s JSTEM/CTE offerings.
Board members voted 7–0 to adopt the budget amendments after a staff explanation that district-wide reductions were applied across campuses and central offices to address a projected shortfall. Trustee Miss Ryan flagged specific reductions in JSTEM supplies, transportation and technology, saying the program is a flagship that helps retain families and produces CTE multipliers. She asked whether reductions risked undermining robotics, Project‑Based Learning field trips and extra‑duty pay for teachers who supervise competitions.
Assistant and campus leaders told the board that budgets were reduced across the board and that principals and directors may request targeted funds if a program has demonstrated need. "Any needs have not been met, they just need to be expressed," a district leader told the board; trustees instructed staff to make it clear to campuses how to request program funds and to prioritize sustaining programs tied to student retention and CTE revenue generation.
The board approved the amendments 7–0; trustees asked administration to monitor the effect of the cuts on enrollment and program quality and to report back with specifics on CTE funding and any unmet program needs.