Anchorage School District board warns of budget shortfall, moves into executive session

During a meeting of the Anchorage School District board, members warned that current funding projections and the use of discretionary reserves could force cuts to staff and programs next year and the board voted to enter an executive session for legal updates, negotiations and contracts.

Board members focused on uncertainty in state funding and the district’s use of constitutional budget reserves, saying the timing of legislative action and gubernatorial decisions will determine whether programs and staffing levels can be maintained. "The good news is that we've got something coming, and the bad news is next year, because the budget we've got right now is using up the reserves that really are more discretionary," Member Higgins said. "I hope we get into discussions not…