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ABC Unified’s first interim shows smaller deficit after TK funding boost; trustees warn of federal funding risks
Summary
District staff reported a positive first‑interim certification after a roughly $1.2 million LCFF increase to support transitional kindergarten. The current‑year deficit is projected at about $466,000; trustees discussed grant spend‑down and potential federal funding cuts.
ABC Unified School District staff presented the 2025–26 First Interim financial report on Dec. 9 and certified the budget with a positive finding, reporting an LCFF revenue increase of roughly $1.2 million to support transitional kindergarten (TK) and a reduced general‑fund deficit projection.
Chief financial staff told trustees the district’s current‑year unrestricted general‑fund deficit is projected at about $466,000, with smaller shortfalls in the following two years as one‑time grant funds are spent down. The presentation cited an approximate TK enrollment of 600 students and stated the district’s recruitment goal of about 750 TK enrollees (roughly 75% of the incoming K population).
"The deficit now is down to a more manageable level," the district finance officer said as staff outlined three‑year projections and the use of restricted funds for targeted student supports. Trustees emphasized that many restricted programs are intentionally being spent down to support students and that grant‑funded positions are often temporary. One trustee asked staff to provide a clear plan for how temporary roles funded by grants could be maintained or phased if federal funding is reduced.
Board members also noted risk from proposed federal budget changes: staff said some federal programs are considered at‑risk in current federal budget negotiations (including Title III/English Learner and migrant education) with potential reductions in the $2.5–$3 million range; the district said it will return with mitigation options if federal allocations are cut.
The board approved the First Interim report by unanimous vote.
Votes at a glance
- First Interim 2025–26: approved, motion passed 7‑0. - Several policy and contract items associated with the 2025–26 operating and Measure BB capital program were approved at the meeting; see board minutes for full action list.
What happens next
District staff said they will return with periodic updates, staffing details and plans to smooth transitions as one‑time funds expire and to evaluate how to use restricted dollars where allowed.
