Board hears 2026–27 budget presentation; officials flag $1 million in voucher flows and shift toward local revenue

District administrators presented the proposed 2026–27 budget and fielded questions during a public hearing. The presentation noted the proposed budget would increase from $164,000,000 to $167,000,000 and that, for this year, local revenue now represents about 53% of the district’s revenue mix. An administrator explained the shift: “That recent change really is, coming from the state budget decision not to fund state aid,” saying the difference between revenue authority and state aid is passed to local taxpayers as levy.

Administrators also discussed federal funding changes. On Title I and Title IV funds the district historically used much of this federal pot to support staffing in Title schools; administrators and board members noted those federal allocations are not growing and that creates pressure on the general fund. The board raised questions about whether Title funds can be used for non‑staffing purposes and were told those funds have typically underpinned staff for interventions.

Board members and administrators discussed voucher program effects. A board member noted the district’s voucher flow had “crossed $1,000,000 this year,” producing a visible line item on tax bills while the dollars do not remain available to district operations. Administration cautioned that as private schools accept vouchers and enrollment shifts, the district could face enrollment declines and levy pressure. The board asked administration to follow up with more precise figures on voucher utilization and to provide further analysis of fund‑balance targets and short‑term borrowing needs.

No budget adoption vote occurred at the meeting; administrators encouraged community members to review posted materials and said the annual meeting in October will provide another opportunity for public questions.