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District warns of state budget risks: TK, levy equalization and bus depreciation in play
Summary
Superintendent and staff told the board legislative proposals this short session could cut transition-to-kindergarten funding (estimates discussed between $19M–$38M statewide), alter levy equalization eligibility and extend bus depreciation schedules — all changes the district is monitoring for potential local impact.
The superintendent reported that although the district’s capital/tech levy was certified with roughly 55% voter approval, the short 60-day legislative session is producing proposals that may reduce education funding in several targeted areas. “We are not at this point really receiving any good news for education,” he said, and listed three areas drawing attention: levy equalization, transition to kindergarten (TK) and bus depreciation rules.
Staff described the potential scale of cuts to TK referenced in the proposals circulating at the time: “Somewhere between 19 and 38 million is what they’re starting their budget negotiations with,” a presenter said, adding that precise local impacts depend on OSPI’s implementation guidance once the budget is settled. Troy expanded on why TK and levy-equalization have been targeted: TK is relatively new and seen as vulnerable, while levy-equalization proposals could raise the eligibility threshold and shift more tax burden to local property taxpayers, a move he warned could run counter to the McCleary court decision’s goals.
Officials stressed uncertainty: the legislature sets budget totals and directs OSPI on allocation methods, so school districts may not know their exact exposure until later in the session. The superintendent said the district is actively monitoring developments and advocating against unfunded mandates.
Board members asked whether policy waivers or flexibility for districts with budget constraints were being applied; presenters said some bills seeking to force statewide policy changes or added training for board members had not advanced and that districts’ funding situations vary widely.
The board received the update; no formal action was taken, but staff said they will report new information as OSPI guidance or budget language becomes available.
