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Coquille SD 8 projects enrollment decline that could shrink revenue by about $1.04 million
Summary
Superintendent told the board the district projects starting enrollment around 1,130 next year — down roughly 145 students over three years — and estimated a per‑pupil funding shortfall of about $1,038,780 tied to declining enrollment and state funding adjustments. Board discussed spending slowdowns, staffing ratios, and steps to 'right‑size' the district.
Superintendent presented an updated financial outlook showing a multi‑year enrollment decline and a projected budget shortfall tied to lower per‑pupil revenue.
She said the district is budgeting for about 1,130 students next year after losing cohorts and expects a decline of approximately 145 students over three years. Using the current per‑pupil estimate, she calculated that a decline of 87 students equates to "$1,038,780," a figure she cited to illustrate the magnitude of revenue at risk.
The superintendent outlined that 75% of district spending goes to staffing and that with fewer students the district must align staffing ratios and programs to the smaller student base. She described the district's approach as a "spending slowdown" rather than a total freeze and noted previous strategic cuts totaling about $1,759,000, which reduced an earlier projected $1.8M cut from the governor's request.
Board members asked for more data on where students are going and requested comparisons of salary and benefit packages as the district prepares for next year's negotiations. The superintendent said staff will bring a finalized SB‑141 plan and enrollment snapshots (kindergarten roundup on April 9) to guide budget decisions.
