Committee questions focus on insurance spikes, reserve sustainability and Early Literacy Grant

Committee members used the presentation as an opportunity to probe key fiscal risks and programmatic priorities. Kelsey Bozeman asked whether the sharp reduction in the Capital Projects Fund signaled the end of projects or a delay; Director of Finance Dede Corpening said the district is moving out of a peak year and is applying for new grants. Dona Dotson asked how much of the insurance increase was due to property coverage versus liability; Corpening replied that the majority of the increase was property insurance premiums driven statewide by wildfire risk.

Alan Nidiffer questioned the long-term sustainability of tapering reserves; Superintendent Helena Chirinian said the reserve is planned to gradually reduce to the board’s 7.5% policy threshold and that staff will be cautious and adjust plans as enrollment and funding forecasts evolve. Sonya Billington asked about the Early Literacy Grant; Chirinian noted the grant is competitive and tied to measurable interventions such as high-dose tutoring in grades K–3, which the presentation reported is producing measurable growth. Nathan Hanscam thanked the finance team and asked whether further staffing reductions were expected; Chirinian said the district is monitoring staffing and grant support and will make adjustments if necessary.