Superintendent Dr. Zeke told the Sioux Falls School District 49-5 board that the district is officially launching the FY27 budget process, asking administrators and committee members to prepare level-based budgets and program-impact narratives.

Dr. Zeke outlined the structure: 19 cost center committees — about 150 people — will develop level 3 budgets (100% of the prior-year program) and alternate 98% and 99% scenarios where appropriate. Key deadlines included: enrollment projections by Dec. 1; a budget preparer meeting Dec. 3; level 3 packet completion by Dec. 23; budgets due Feb. 27; a preliminary budget by March 11; a budget-committee work session later in March and a public hearing on the proposed '27 budget in April; final approval at the district’s annual July meeting.

He said committees should prioritize alignment with the district’s five-year plan and prepare narratives that explain program impacts if reductions are required. Dr. Zeke noted that where ESSER funds have already been used for positions or programs, some budgets will be allowed to submit smaller scenario levels in lieu of full reductions.

The board moved, seconded and approved the budget guidelines and timeline by voice vote; no roll-call counts were recorded. Dr. Zeke invited questions and offered to stay after the meeting for follow-ups and committee coordination.

The action sends the budget schedule into the next phase of committee work; budget preparers will meet in early December and budgets are due to the business office by Feb. 27.