Board begins multi-step budget prioritization and administrative staffing review

Waukegan district leaders told the operations committee they are preparing a multi‑tier budget‑prioritization process in response to declining ESSER funds, falling enrollment and increased benefit costs. Miss Polk (budget lead) described criteria the district will use — alignment with strategic priorities, student/school needs, organizational efficiency and return on investment — and said departments would review positions and contracts before consolidated recommendations are presented to the superintendent and then the board.

The presentation described a proposed timeline: department reviews in February, board review beginning in late February, staff notifications in early March and possible board action on March 17. The administration emphasized it will prioritize avoiding cuts to direct student services and will focus initial work on central and administrative office positions, contracts and consultants.

Board members pressed for concrete ROI thresholds and for a clear distinction between mandated/compliance positions and roles that could be considered for consolidation. Miss Lindsay urged that future superintendent goals include cost implications for each goal so the board can weigh priorities against fiscal constraints. Some trustees asked that consulting contracts and outside vendors be trimmed before considering staff reductions; the superintendent said the district is reviewing contracts, consultants and staffing simultaneously and will provide a private workshop for the board to review details.

The administration said salaries and benefits represent roughly 75–80% of the budget and that administrative staffing is being reviewed to reduce duplication while protecting student services. A follow‑up finance presentation on reserves and deficit strategies was scheduled at the next meeting.