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OKCPS Board Approves FY2026 Budget Based on Appropriations Projections; CFO Cites Slight Tax and Foundation Aid Increases
Summary
The board approved the fiscal year 2026 budget based on appropriations revenue projections by a 6–0 vote. CFO Sydney Ward said modest increases are expected in tax collections and foundation aid, while certain federal funds will decrease.
The Oklahoma City Public Schools board on Tuesday approved the fiscal year 2026 budget based on appropriations revenue projections, voting 6–0 to carry the measure.
During the meeting CFO Sydney Ward answered board questions about revenue projections. Ward said the district is projecting a modest increase in tax collections because the net assessed value rose slightly and a small increase in state foundation aid driven by higher student counts. At the same time she said federal revenues will decline because “the Vester went away,” meaning a federal funding stream the district had received is ending.
Ward explained column C of the budget packet reflects the projected revenues for FY2026; the district expects the tax and foundation‑aid increases to offset some reductions in federal funds. She also said the building fund will decrease next year because federal dollars that supported it will not be available.
Board members asked whether the FY2025 projections were lower than FY2026 budget figures; Ward said the increase comes from the assessed‑value change and the small uptick in foundation aid tied to student counts. She invited further review of the packet and offered to bring detailed figures as needed.
The budget motion carried unanimously. District staff said the vote aligns projected revenues with the district’s budgeting schedule and supports operational planning for the coming year.
