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Board keeps preschool tuition steady for 2026–27, citing scholarships and grants
Summary
The Osborn governing board approved unchanged preschool tuition rates for 2026–27 after hearing administration say the rates cover operational costs, noting scholarships and grants (Quality First, DES, HQEL) help affordability; board members questioned aftercare availability and enrollment patterns.
The Osborn Elementary District governing board voted to approve preschool tuition rates for the 2026–27 school year with no increase from the prior year. Administration said the proposed rate is set to meet operational costs, including maintaining required classroom staffing ratios (a teacher and assistant) and that a combination of quality‑first scholarships, Department of Economic Security (DES) eligibility, and grant funds (including High Quality Early Learning grants) supports family affordability.
Board members pressed for details about after‑school care (the district does not currently run an Osborne aftercare program; paid vendors and separate fees exist), preschool enrollment distribution (about 90 students across five classrooms, with class sizes ranging roughly 13–19), and the proportion of preschool students with IEPs (reported at about 17% inclusion). Administration warned of reductions in some federal funding streams and said the district is planning scaled partial scholarships to extend available funds to more families.
The motion to approve the rates was moved and seconded and carried by voice vote. No dollar increases were authorized; scholarship and eligibility opportunities were emphasized as avenues to maintain affordability.
