NRHEG board approves revised 2025–26 budget, flags roughly $442,000 general‑fund shortfall

The NRHEG School District board approved a revised 2025–26 budget on March 16 that projects an overall general‑fund decrease of about $442,000.

Carla, who presented the budget, told trustees the district is maintaining fund‑balance policy targets but is tracking several revenue uncertainties that could alter the result. She recapped that the state’s formula increases are now tied to the Consumer Price Index, with a statutory floor and cap, and said the district expects a formula increase near 2.69% for fiscal 2027. She also pointed to a lag in third‑party medical‑assistance billing: the district projects $100,000 in recoverable third‑party billings for the year but has received roughly $30,000 to date.

Trustees discussed the use of fund balance, enrollment stability and the district’s recent decision to allow one‑time overspending to cover known costs. Superintendent Mr. May noted that some expenditures (for example, a curriculum purchase spread across two years) were timed to reduce immediate budget pressure, and he cautioned that paid family and medical‑leave costs at the state level remain a potential long‑term cost driver.

Board members asked for follow‑up and line‑by‑line reviews with departments if significant changes emerge before the fiscal year end. After discussion, a motion to approve the revised 2025–26 budget as presented carried on a voice vote.

Next steps: administration will monitor timing of third‑party reimbursements, return with updates as needed and revisit the budget if material changes arise.