Salem-Keizer previews two-year integrated plan as budget boost collides with rising personnel costs

Superintendent Castaneda and district leaders on Jan. 28 presented a preview of Salem‑Keizer Public Schools’ proposed two‑year integrated plan and community engagement findings, telling the school board the governor’s recommended budget could add roughly $81 million in general fund resources over the next biennium while personnel costs remain the fastest‑growing expense.

The presentation combined a budget scenario, a summary of fall and spring engagement with families, students and staff, and an outline of strategies tied to the board’s five results measures. "There is a lot that we don't know right now. So this is not a projection. This is more like a scenario," Superintendent Castaneda said as district leaders described uncertainties related to bargaining and enrollment.

Why it matters: district leaders said the possible revenue increase is historic for Oregon but warned that personnel costs — which they said make up about 90% of operating expenses — will absorb most new funding. That tension will shape bargaining and budget choices during the legislative session and the district’s internal planning cycle.

Overview and timeline District staff said the plan is intended to align a two‑year budget and an integrated plan required by the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) with the board’s strategic results policy. Dr. Jonathan McElroy told the board the district had…