A major portion of the meeting focused on the district’s budget concerns for the 2025-2026 school year, as presented by Superintendent Dr. Lori Putnam. The district anticipates financial challenges due to changes in state policy and funding formulas. A primary concern is the projected $485,000 revenue loss resulting from proposed changes to the compensatory revenue formula by the governor. This is coupled with the expiration of one-time literacy aid and underfunded unemployment costs, which are expected to reach $250,000. These financial pressures have necessitated careful staffing decisions, including the elimination of several district positions and adjustments to teaching staff based on enrollment numbers.

Superintendent Putnam emphasized that the district’s approach to budgeting must remain conservative and transparent, addressing known issues while prioritizing student-facing roles. The proposed adjustments are seen as essential to maintaining fiscal health while protecting classroom instruction. The discussion underlined the district’s reliance on state allocations, which constitute 85% of its revenue, making legislative funding fluctuations particularly impactful.

In addition to budgetary issues, the meeting addressed the district’s approach to American Indian education. A board member expressed frustration over the district’s non-concurrence status with its American Indian program, arguing that it sends a negative message to the community. There was a call for the district to ensure every American Indian student graduates with honors and to honor their culture within educational programs. The member highlighted that although the district has a strong American Indian program compared to others, the American Indian Parent Advisory Committee (APAC) has consistently labeled it as non-concurrent.

Another board member acknowledged the historical context of these issues, including the impact of past injustices against indigenous peoples. They expressed a commitment to signing the compliance letter not as an indication of the district’s shortcomings but as part of ongoing work with the community.

The meeting also featured a presentation on the Adult Basic Education (ABE) program, which serves individuals aged 17 and older who are not enrolled in K-12 education. The program primarily caters to those learning English as a second language or pursuing their GED or adult diploma. Student speakers, including Sharon Randall and Maria Kamacho, shared personal journeys underscoring the transformative impact of the program. Sharon highlighted her determination to earn her high school diploma at the age of 61, celebrating nearly a decade of sobriety and academic success. Maria, who moved from Mexico, shared her challenges in learning English and her progress through multiple levels of ESL classes. Both credited their teachers for their support and patience, emphasizing the program’s role in their educational achievements.

The board also discussed the Native American Parent Advisory Committee (NAPAC) and the school district’s response to its recommendations. The district is required to have a parent advisory committee for American Indian students to be eligible for specific funding. Ayan Omar, the equity services director, presented a letter addressing NAPAC’s suggestions for enhancing educational services for American Indian students. The board’s response called for the administration to review these suggestions and promote collaboration to improve outcomes for American Indian students. Omar emphasized the importance of timely communication and acknowledgment of NAPAC’s role.

Financial pressures were further highlighted by discussions on special education services, which have seen an 8.9% increase in demand between the 2023-24 and 2024-25 school years. The district has made staffing adjustments, reallocating positions to address urgent special education needs, and adding new positions funded through projected increases in special education revenue. Despite these efforts, the demand for services continues to outpace categorical funding, necessitating reliance on general fund dollars to fill the gap.

The board’s legislative committee has communicated concerns to local legislators about potential funding changes, particularly regarding hold harmless compensatory revenue formulas, which could lead to significant funding losses. There were also discussions on proposed cuts to school library aid, emphasizing the immediate implications for students, staff, and essential programs.