Corvallis School Board adopts 2025–26 budget amid staff reductions

The Corvallis School District 509J Board of Directors voted to adopt the 2025–26 budget on June 12, 2025, approving Resolution No. 25-0601 to make appropriations, impose property taxes and categorize those taxes for the coming fiscal year. The motion was moved by Director Chris Hawkins, seconded by Director Sarni Al-Abdrabbuh, and passed with six yeas and one absence.

Board members acknowledged the difficulty of allocating limited resources and repeatedly emphasized the human consequences of the reductions. One board summary noted the district would reduce 21 certified staff positions. "These are people, not just numbers," a board member said, underscoring the personal impact on staff and families. Members praised Finance Director Lauren Wolfe and staff for a transparent process and encouraged continued community engagement to clarify where public input can be most effective.

In discussion, directors urged residents to learn about existing district efforts (fundraising, investments, consolidation studies) before proposing alternative budget ideas, to ensure constructive dialogue. The board also emphasized that its formal role centers on setting goals and allocation parameters; specific position and program decisions are made by district administrators. With no public testimony during the budget hearing, the board proceeded to the vote and adopted the budget. The board recorded the vote as Yeas: 6, Nays: 0, Absent: 1.