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Parents, unions press Hacienda la Puente board on FCMAT'flagged financial risks; district staff outline response plan
Summary
Union leaders and community members raised alarms over a recent FCMAT assessment that flagged fiscal risk and projected sharp declines in reserves, pressing the board for transparency and a concrete recovery plan; district staff said responsive plans will be delivered by month-end and highlighted current reserves.
Trustees, union leaders and dozens of community speakers spent the meeting's public comment period pressing Hacienda la Puente Unified School District officials for clearer answers about a recent FCMAT (Fiscal Crisis & Management Assistance Team) report that rates the district at high fiscal risk.
At the meeting, Margaret Caldera, chapter president of the California School Employees Association, cited the FCMAT report and said the district's unrestricted general fund could fall from roughly $75 million to $10 million over three years if corrective action is not taken. "The report shows the district faces major financial challenges," Caldera said, urging leaders to craft a clear, transparent plan to stop deficit spending and protect employees and student services.
Community members who reviewed the FCMAT report echoed the concerns. "This FCMAT is showing really declaring it at high risk," said Erica Estrada during public comment, citing enrollment declines and past school closures and urging the board to host town halls and involve residents in problem-solving.
District business staff responded during the budget presentation, noting the 2024-25 unaudited actuals and explaining that the current-year reserve projection sits substantially higher than some had feared. "We are projecting an approximate 17% reserve for the current year," the district's interim finance staff said, while cautioning that multi-year forecasts remain volatile and are sensitive to state funding changes.
Chief business staff said they are preparing responsive plans addressing FCMAT observations and expect to have them completed by the end of the month. Trustees pressed for details on position control, timelines and how deficit-reduction measures would be implemented. "We will have extensive discussions with the board, associations and community to determine needs and possible adjustments," staff said.
Trustees and union representatives called for transparency and participation as the district moves into budget development for 2026'27. Several board members emphasized that while current reserves are healthier than previously reported, long-term planning and cost controls remain essential.
Next steps: district staff committed to delivering an FCMAT response plan and a timeline for corrective actions by the end of the month; the board will continue budget discussions and hold public meetings on the issue.
