State monitor: 2026-27 budget is balanced, but cash and savings are thin

What happened

The monitor's March 30, 2026 review says the district began 2026-27 planning with only $3.3 million in savings (fund balance) at the end of June 2025, expected about $7.4 million by June 2026, and borrowed $17 million in December 2025 through a short-term tax anticipation note to cover cash needs. It expects 15 to 20 fewer staff positions by attrition and consolidation in 2026-27.

Why it matters to families

Small savings mean a surprise, such as less state aid or higher special education costs, could force cuts or more borrowing. The monitor says the budget balances on careful guesses but several risks could weaken it.

The evidence

The monitor's budget analysis lists the audited fund balance of $3.306 million, the projected $7.379 million, the $17 million note, enrollment expected to fall about 1.3% to 6,364, and risks: lower state aid, faster charter school tuition growth, more special education placements, and higher health and energy costs.

The source