Board faces transportation funding gap; agrees to fact-finding on Saint Mary—s shuttle arrangement

District finance staff told the board that state transportation reimbursements have been reduced and that the district—s total transportation cost is about $8.9 million annually. The board directed staff to compile a consolidated fact sheet and to continue current services for an interim period while it evaluates options, including the long-standing shuttle arrangements for Saint Mary's private school. Amir, the district finance representative, said: "transportation as it currently stands is about $8,900,000." He described the district—s exposure to a decline in state reimbursements, estimating roughly a $1.9 million funding gap that the district would have to fill if state support does not return to prior levels. Superintendent Dr. Marissa Garcia Sanchez told the board the district had sought a cushion during the last tax levy cycle and would have to "rob Peter to pay Paul" to cover the reduction if the state does not restore funds. She said staff are evaluating discretionary EVF funds and other one-time sources as stopgap measures. Board members raised a separate but related issue: the transportation arrangements for students attending Saint Mary—s. Several board members said state law and board policy permit nonpublic students to ride regular district routes but that the district has been providing additional shuttle-style services for Saint Mary—s that may be above the legal minimum. The board agreed to collect complete route and cost information and to continue providing service during the first semester while staff evaluate long-term options, possible fee arrangements and whether the service should continue beyond the current year. The board asked staff to return with a consolidated report on transportation costs, the Saint Mary—s routes and the options to address the budget shortfall.