Sultan School District board adopts 2026–27 budget amid warnings of tight finances

The Sultan School District Board of Directors voted to adopt the district’s 2026–27 budget after a public hearing on Aug. 24, approving the plan by voice vote with all in favor.

Mary Anne moved to adopt the budget as presented, saying, “I make a motion to adopt the 20 26, 20 27 budget that's presented.” The motion was seconded and approved without recorded opposition. The board also adopted the district’s capital facilities plan after members confirmed they had received advance copies for review.

Budget presenters told the board the district is budgeting 2,098 full‑time‑equivalent students (FTE) for the coming year and is setting staffing assumptions at 98% of a 10‑year average to avoid being overstaffed. Total general fund revenues and expenditures were described in the presentation as roughly in the $47 million range, and staff noted the projected ending general‑fund balance would be below the board’s 4% policy target unless cuts or revenue gains occur.

Board members heard that staffing accounts for the largest share of spending (about 77.55% of the budget) and that the levy is roughly $5.2 million. Superintendent and finance staff emphasized the multi‑year planning process and said the district will continue to refine figures as official headcounts and grant awards are finalized.