Norfolk schools report $476M budget; March variance reflects timing, not shortfall

Mr. Starks presented the Norfolk Public Schools monthly financial report covering activity through March 31, telling the board the division’s financial position is stable and aligned with expectations.

He said the district’s total budget is $476 million; through March the division had received $336.6 million (70.7% of budget) and had expended or encumbered $361.22 million (75.9%), creating a $24.6 million variance where expenditures currently exceed revenues. Starks said the gap is typical for this point in the fiscal year and largely driven by timing — encumbrances and early recognitions of expenditures while certain state and city revenues continue to arrive through June.

Three items Starks highlighted were special‑education purchased services running approximately $3.2 million over the sub‑line budget due to contracted placements, utilities within operations nearly fully committed with roughly 3% remaining, and a classification issue where expenditures for non‑regular day school were recorded to an incorrect general ledger line and are being corrected.

Mr. Starks also said the district is managing about $119 million in federal and state grants, with federal grants roughly 70% utilized and state grants about 92% utilized; he told the board he had spoken with each grant manager and did not expect material lapses in grant funding.

The board moved and approved the monthly financial report subject to audit by roll call. Members thanked staff for pre‑submitted questions and the earlier presentation of budget detail. No budget transfers or new appropriations were approved at the April 15 meeting.