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Board approves 2025–26 budget amid criticism of admin spending and reserves
Summary
The board approved the 2025–26 district budget 4–1 after public speakers questioned rising administrative costs and high reserve percentages, urging more money for tutors and credentialed teachers.
The Natomas Unified board voted 4–1 to approve the district's 2025–26 budget after extended public comment focused on administrative spending levels, reserve policy, and the need for direct instructional hires.
Public commenters cited specific numbers: Jen Souza said administrative spending has grown by about $1,500,000 since 2023 and urged reallocating funds to hire credentialed reading intervention teachers. Lerner Connor told trustees the district has about $156,000,000 in unrestricted revenue and argued the district should hire in-class reading specialists and tutors rather than expand administrative layers. "Budgets reflect priorities," Connor said. Taxpayer and parent commenters also asked the board to reconsider a 6% reserve level and reallocate a portion to classroom supports.
Trustees thanked staff for preparing a complex budget and noted the difficulty of the current funding environment. After trustee discussion and a motion to adopt the budget, the measure passed on a roll-call vote of 4–1. The board and speakers said they expect continued community engagement as the district refines spending priorities.
