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Community demands transparency on $91M deficit, facilities and staffing as meeting grows heated
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Summary
Public commenters pressed the district for clear accounting of a cited $91 million deficit, better communication, protections for magnet school identities, and quicker fixes to facilities problems (weight room delays, lack of shade, soap); several asked for a formal task force and legal accountability if positions or school identities change.
A recurring theme through the public‑comment block was demand for financial transparency and basic facilities fixes. Parents, alumni and community advocates repeatedly raised a district shortfall described by several speakers as $91,000,000 and asked how that gap relates to proposed operational changes.
"Where's the budget? Where is this money getting spent? That $91,000,000 deficit," said a parent and leader of a parent organization, echoing multiple commenters who said they learned of proposals through social media rather than direct district communication.
Speakers also described delayed facility projects and safety concerns: Eastside High coaches had to assemble weight‑room equipment after the facilities timeline slipped from December to April; track athletes lacked shade tents; students complained of soap dispensers left empty in multiple restrooms.
Teachers, alumni and parents called for a hold on any structural changes until a formally convened process — with students, teachers, staff, parents and legacy families — could present options and assurances. Several speakers warned of continued protests and possible legal action should staffing cuts or school renaming proceed without community consent.
The board acknowledged the concerns and the superintendent pledged to publish a letter and an FAQ, set up more engagement sessions and work with partners to boost enrollment and operational capacity. No budget‑vote or staffing decisions were made at this meeting.
