Board briefs on 2025 budget update, enrollment projection and 2026 supplies allocations

Winona Area Public Schools finance staff on Feb. 19 briefed the board on the revised 2025 budget book, current‑year enrollment snapshots used to project 2026 average daily membership (ADM), and the preliminary method and allocations for the 2026 supplies and materials budget.

The board voted at the start of the meeting to move the 2025 budget update (agenda item 4B) from an action item to a briefing; that procedural motion carried by voice vote so the materials were presented for discussion rather than formal board adoption.

Budget update Director Sarah Slavi told the board that the revised 2025 budget book had been posted and that changes from the previously approved budget were annotated in red with strike‑throughs to highlight differences. Staff emphasized that the larger supporting documents reflect the same underlying numbers and that most changes were explanatory or formatting; directors were invited to submit questions to staff or schedule follow‑up time if needed.

Enrollment projection and fiscal impact Finance staff reviewed a recalculation of the 2025 base‑year enrollment and a 2026 enrollment projection based on current‑year snapshots and cohort survival factors. Staff reported the net change from the recalculation was small — roughly 0.94 ADM — which the presentation estimated would translate to about $6,800 in revenue change; based on that small difference staff did not recommend changing the district’s enrollment assumption for budgeting.

Supplies and materials allocation for 2026 Staff explained the district uses a multi‑input method to allocate site supply and materials budgets and that principals were consulted; allocations are similar to prior years and the estimated total allocation is roughly $1,900 less than last year, consistent with largely flat enrollment. The document assumes a preliminary building configuration (including kindergarten locations and RIOS program assignments) that staff said remains subject to change as staffing and placements are finalized.

Board next steps Staff asked directors to review the documents in detail and return questions ahead of the March 6 meeting when some items will return for action. Staff also offered one‑on‑one time for newer board members to review budget materials.

Speakers (selected) - Sarah Slavi, Director (finance/operations), Winona Area Public Schools (presentation) - Dawn Brzezinski, Superintendent, Winona Area Public Schools (board liaison and policy discussion)

Actions referenced - Motion to move agenda item 4B (2025 budget update) from action to briefing; motion carried by voice vote.

Clarifying details - Estimated revenue impact of the 0.94 ADM change: about $6,800 (as presented by finance staff). - Supplies and materials estimated allocation: approximately $1,900 less than prior year (preliminary and subject to change).

Ending: Staff will post revised budget documents, accept director questions over the coming weeks, and return the materials for action where required at the March meeting.