Community input results. In person: 207 listening session and Citizens Advisory Committee attendees; 223 Balancing Act budget tool budget submissions; ThoughtExchange survey: 1,058 participants

Budget cut feedback

The following information was gathered from public listening sessions on March 4 and March 11, ThoughtExchange surveys, a budget simulation tool and feedback from the Citizens Advisory Committee. Students, parents and guardians, staff members, volunteers and community members all provided input.

While the perspectives were varied and did not always align, we are considering all of the ideas and suggestions as we make decisions about budget cuts for the 2026-27 school year. We are grateful to those who took the time to provide input.

School board meeting presentation

Information shared with the district's board of directors on March 23, 2026:

Watch a discussion of the feedback starting at 01:33:06.

Jump to

Priorities
Areas of less alignment
Cost-reduction themes
Clarifications
Additional observations
Budget tool
More budget cut information

Priorities across all input

Student safety and well-being Core academic instruction Support for vulnerable students Student engagement College and career preparation

Areas of less alignment

Cost-reduction themes

Clarifications

School finance is a complex topic. The following clarifications address common areas of confusion. For more clarifications, please visit our FAQ.

Additional observations

  • Participants emphasized the importance of transparency and clear communication throughout the process.

  • Many expressed a preference for making smaller reductions across multiple areas rather than eliminating entire programs. 

  • There was strong concern about maintaining sufficient staffing levels to support student safety, learning and well-being.

Balancing Act budgeting tool takeaways

Stakeholders had an opportunity to use a budget simulation tool called A Balancing Act to adjust costs for the upcoming school year.

Chart showing the average submitted reduction amount per category

See the average submitted reduction amount per category

Chart showing the distribution of budget reductions

See the distribution of budget reductions as a percentage of approximately $20 million