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Stanwood-Camano board approves reduced educational program amid state funding shortfall
Summary
The Stanwood-Camano School District board voted unanimously to approve a reduced educational program for 2026–27 after district staff described a structural funding gap and recommended using part of the fund balance; the plan could lead to position reductions unless retirements offset cuts.
The Stanwood-Camano School District Board of Directors voted unanimously April 21 to approve a reduced educational program for the 2026–27 school year, a measure district staff said is necessary to address a structural shortfall in state K–12 funding.
Ruth, the district presenter, told the board the state funding model has weakened and that the district faces a significant budget gap; during her presentation she quoted a figure of “about $4,200,000,000” when describing the broader problem and proposed using roughly $1,500,000 of the district’s fund balance as part of an offset. Ruth said the plan includes reductions across district office budgets, school building budgets and categorical program realignments and cautioned that a reduction in force is likely “unless more retirements occur in the coming days.”
Parents and community members urged the board to look for alternatives. Michelle Friedman, a public commenter, said the proposed elimination of the elementary student support advocate would remove a continuity of services for families and noted that the advocate’s caseload covers about “306 families.” Friedman asked whether grants or other funding sources had been explored and urged the board to seek funding to continue that position.
Board members and district officials described steps taken to minimize classroom impacts. The superintendent and other directors commended the finance and planning team for seeking offsets and said the proposal would be adjusted during the spring and summer budget process. Several directors also encouraged community outreach to state legislators to press for increased K–12 funding.
The motion to approve the reduced educational program (consent agenda item number 3) was moved by Director Russell and seconded by Director King. The board recorded the motion and approved the item unanimously. The board did not adopt a detailed dollar-by-dollar staffing list at the meeting; Ruth said further adjustments and clarifications will occur during ongoing budget development.
Next steps: the district will continue budget development through the spring and summer, with adjustments to the program and staffing proposals possible as retirements, additional revenues or other offsets are identified.
