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Inglewood Unified adopts 2026–27 budget, flags multi‑year cuts as enrollment declines
Summary
The board adopted the district’s 2026–27 budget and heard a cash‑flow update showing positive monthly balances but projected multi‑year deficit pressures tied to declining enrollment; staff outlined a fiscal stabilization plan that anticipates at least $5 million in annual reductions.
The Inglewood Unified School District board on June 24 formally adopted its 2026–27 budget after a presentation on cash‑flow projections and multi‑year fiscal planning.
Assistant Superintendent and Chief Business Official Raphael Guzman explained that cash‑flow projections show positive balances month‑to‑month but that timing of revenues (local taxes, EPA and state aid) and declining enrollment are putting downward pressure on the district’s LCFF funding. "Cash flow is one of the most important financial tools we use because it tells us whether we can meet our obligations," Guzman said.
Sid Bata, presented as incoming assistant superintendent of business services, reviewed the adopted budget and multi‑year projections. The adopted 2026–27 budget estimates an unrestricted general fund close at $60.5 million and noted a planned deficit‑spending figure the staff described as part of a fiscal stabilization plan. Bata said the district must plan for reductions and identified an approximate $5 million annual reduction target to preserve reserves over the multi‑year forecast. "We must stick to this fiscal stabilization plan in order to achieve these numbers," Bata said.
Trustees pressed staff on the reduction targets. Board member Margaret Turner Evans asked why $5 million in cuts is necessary; Bata and Guzman explained the link between Average Daily Attendance (ADA), LCFF allocations and revenue declines. Trustee Brandon Meyers said the board will seek ways to protect instruction while reducing contracted services and reallocating savings to district staff.
Staff noted that the adopted budget will be revised under California law within 45 days of the state budget’s enactment to reflect any changes; a first‑interim report reflecting actual fall enrollment is expected after the census day in October. Staff also said audited actuals for the prior year will be brought forward in September.
No formal vote tallies were recorded in the public transcript; the board adopted the proposed budget and approved required consent items tied to the fiscal cycle.
