Board approves revised FY25–26 budget after administrators cite lower student counts and legislative uncertainty

The Kenyon-Wanamingo School District board voted to approve a revised fiscal year 2025–26 general fund budget after administrators reported lower student counts and lingering uncertainty over state funding. The budget was revised using an average daily membership (ADM) of 608, down from the 620 used in the original plan, and projects the general fund to end the year $167,891 “in the black.”

Dawn, the district finance staff who presented the update, said ADM “stands for average daily membership” and explained that the figure accounts for move-ins, move-outs and attendance days rather than simply enrollment headcount. She told trustees the district’s final ADM calculation for the prior year was 650.98 and that this year’s lower ADM reduced revenue expectations. Dawn also said the district excluded the one-time sale of the Wanamingo building from the general fund; proceeds would go to debt service instead.

The presentation flagged legislative risk: administrators warned the 2026 legislative session could change formula and compensatory funding. Dawn said a reduction in compensatory revenue could cost the district “roughly $45,000” if lawmakers do not provide a hold-harmless measure. Board members asked when relief might arrive; administrators said the timing is “TBD” and depends on state action. The board approved the revised budget by voice vote after motion, with the clerk later reporting the motion carried 7–0.

The district plans to bring a FY27 budget to the board at a May or June meeting and urged trustees to monitor enrollment, kindergarten roundup counts and state legislative developments before adopting next year’s plan.