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Centennial SD flags enrollment decline, financial uncertainty in 2026–27 forecast
Summary
Director Paul Southerton told the Board the district faces declining enrollment and multiple risk factors—statewide budget reductions, federal funding uncertainty, and upcoming bargaining—that warrant cautious budgeting for 2026–27.
Paul Southerton, Director of Business and Operations, presented the district's 2025–26 fall budget update and the 2026–27 forecast, saying the district is proceeding "with overall caution" because of declining enrollment and several uncertainties. "He highlighted current enrollment, revenue, expenses and various risk factors for consideration," the presentation notes.
Southerton told the Board the forecast reflects declining ADM (average daily membership) and called out potential statewide budget reductions, federal funding uncertainties, an unsettled licensed bargaining process, and classified bargaining beginning in 2026 as material risks. Board members asked clarifying questions about weighted ADM and how state funding formulas would affect revenue projections.
The district did not identify new budget-balancing measures in the transcript but signaled continued monitoring and conservative planning. Staff and Board members scheduled follow-up discussions in future meetings and work sessions to refine assumptions and consider options if enrollment trends continue downward.
