Board directs staff to identify $9M+ in reductions as Orenda study set for Jan. 7

Board members were briefed on the district’s fiscal outlook as staff work to identify more than $9 million in possible reductions for 2026–27.

Superintendent Behr and staff cited a sharp decline in assessed valuation that has depressed local revenues. Staff said the November direction to identify $9,000,000 or more in reductions remains in effect. District office staffing recommendations are being finalized and are expected to remove more than 18 full‑time equivalent positions, amounting to just over $4,000,000 in savings; particulars will be presented to the board in January.

Orenda, the consultant engaged to assess program effectiveness, will present findings in a special Jan. 7 meeting; staff plan to bring recommendations for discussion on Jan. 15 and for action on Jan. 29 so decisions can be incorporated into the 2026–27 budget before statutory deadlines in mid‑March.

During trustee Q&A, members pressed for clarity about what will be presented in January, survey timing (staff said the parent survey was sent Nov. 21 in the post‑meeting message) and the extent to which program reductions could affect RTI and other student services. Trustee Gottlieb confirmed the Orenda review will address programmatic interventions.

In public comment, Lillian urged the board to pause cuts and urged reliance on reserves, arguing past district projections overstated deficits and reserves have grown. Trustees acknowledged the public comment and repeated that the Orenda presentation will provide additional data to inform decisions.