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Carlsbad Unified adopts balanced 2026–27 budget; trustees debate staffing and class‑size options
Summary
The board adopted a 2026–27 budget that maintains reserve levels and funds MTSS supports; trustees pressed staff about one‑time funding, the stabilization fund and whether extra money could reduce class sizes or add a second athletic trainer at Carlsbad High.
The Carlsbad Unified School District board on June 24 adopted the district’s 2026–27 annual budget, approving a plan that officials say preserves required reserves, projects solvency across the multi‑year forecast and continues funding for MTSS teachers and related supports.
Dr. Rob Nye, presenting the budget, told trustees the district remains a community‑funded (basic aid) district and has budgeted roughly $1.9 million for MTSS teachers in 2026–27. He also said staff will return with any required adjustments, and that one‑time dollars will be prioritized for recommended student support and professional development.
Trustees used the public hearing and discussion period to press staff on options for using one‑time funds to blunt staffing reductions and reduce class sizes. Trustee Rawlings asked whether unanticipated year‑end surpluses (‘‘un‑audited actuals’’) could be used to preserve teachers; Nye replied the board could consider one‑time uses but warned that ongoing commitments would need matching ongoing revenue to remain sustainable. He said staff recommend using grant or one‑time funds where possible and then revisiting staffing ratios during Fall budget updates.
Several trustees and members of the public raised the need for added athletic staffing at Carlsbad High School. Public commenter Tom Bloomquist said athletic trainer Brianna Mard is ‘‘amazing’’ but overworked and urged the board to consider authorizing a second trainer. Dr. Nye said the site has requested additional coverage in past years but budget constraints have prevented approval; staff will revisit the request when reviewing incoming resources.
The resolution to adopt the budget (Exhibit A) passed by roll call vote 5–0. Nye said staff will return this fall with any 45‑day revisions tied to year‑end closing and with proposals for one‑time investments once the district’s un‑audited actuals are complete.
What’s next: Staff will report un‑audited actuals in September, bringing any recommended one‑time allocations to the board for consideration and further discussion about staffing ratios and targeted class‑size reductions.
