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School board reviews proposed 2025–26 budget; officials flag one-time HVAC cost
Summary
Finance staff presented the proposed 2025–26 budget showing revenue and expenditure positions, staffing reductions, and a large one-time construction cost for Crowley High School HVAC work that could affect this fiscal year depending on invoice timing.
The Acadia Parish School Board reviewed proposed expenditures for the 2025–26 fiscal year and discussed staffing changes, insurance savings and a large one-time construction expense for Crowley High School's HVAC system.
Justin, presenting the budget-to-actuals and the proposed 2025–26 expenditures, said general fund revenue collections were "82.91% at $75,841,284" while expenditures were "74.78% at $68,765,574." He warned that if invoices for the Crowley High HVAC job arrive before June 30 they could create a deficit in the current fiscal year because the bulk of construction money is budgeted in the next fiscal year.
The presentation listed several changes that affect projected expenditures: a 5% reduction in Blue Cross health insurance estimated to save $389,000; a TRSL rate decrease from 21.51% to 20.95% saving about $50,000; school employee rate decreases saving roughly $25,000; and staffing reductions by attrition—eight teaching positions (about $480,000) and six paraprofessional positions (about $150,000). Justin said the shift of retirees to a Medicare Advantage plan saved about $1,300,000. Architect fees of approximately $208,000 were paid in the current year for the Crowley High HVAC project and will not recur next year, while construction accounts increase by about $11,800,000 for the Crowley job in 2025–26.
Officials also noted textbook spending rising after federal ESSER funds expired: the district supplemented textbook purchases with general fund dollars and added roughly $500,000 to textbook lines. Justin said some digital licenses still require print materials and manipulatives for younger grades, contributing to textbook costs above $1 million.
After discussion the board voted to carry the matter forward; no additional policy changes were made at the meeting. Board members praised staff and underscored that the district remains in a "stable position financially," while acknowledging the need to monitor invoice timing and the one-time Crowley High expense.
