Superintendent reports net enrollment gain, asks board to approve $52,000 boost to operating funds

Dr. Morrell, the district superintendent, reported a net gain of four students since November and detailed student movements that affected individual schools, saying, "we have a net gain of four students." She said two students left the high school (one to a private school, one due to unaffordable housing) and cited other transfers tied to parental employment and housing affordability.

The superintendent requested an increase to the superintendent's operating budget, explaining the current line holds $38,000 and that she is requesting an additional $52,000 for 2024–25 to cover educational consultants, student leadership experiences, program branding, supplies and instructional materials. "The it's an additional 52,000," she said during the report.

The board and audit & finance committee clarified earlier expectations: committee members said the "original ask" had been reported differently during prior budget reviews (committee members discussed figures including $60,000 and $90,000 during the meeting). Business official Mr. Mingo said he would identify funding sources and complete the formal budget-transfer request form for the board to approve, noting that a transfer request will return to the board for action.

Trustees asked for details on the proposed $10,000 'program branding' line (for logos, podium/table covers, team jerseys and advertising). Dr. Morrell said the branding funds aim to create district identity and equitable support across programs and that she would apply the funds districtwide where needed. Trustees pressed for assurances the distribution would be equitable across student groups.

Next steps: Mr. Mingo will identify specific transfer sources and prepare the budget-transfer request form for a future board vote.