The Robbinsdale Area Schools Board approved its preliminary budget for fiscal year 2026 during a lengthy meeting Monday night, with the measure passing 5-2 despite concerns from some directors about transparency and decision-making processes.

The budget approval came after extensive discussion about district finances, including a previously identified $21 million deficit. CFO Hoheisel presented the preliminary budget, which projects moving the district's reserve fund from a negative $3.4 million to a positive $13.85 million by June 2026.

Director Holmes voted against the budget, citing concerns about transparency and the prioritization of cabinet salary increases while student supports face reductions. "This budget for me does not prioritize the needs of students, nor does it prioritize staff voice and recommendations," Holmes said during the meeting. Director Long also opposed the measure, stating she had not received answers to questions about the budget process.

Supporting directors praised the administration's work in addressing the district's financial challenges. Director Bowman noted the budget represented necessary "right sizing" after years of financial instability, while Chair Evans Becker commended the comprehensive approach to addressing long-standing fiscal issues.

The meeting also featured presentations on the district's full-service community schools program and safety and security improvements across district buildings. The board additionally approved the district's strategic priority work for 2025-26 and conducted Superintendent Stalo's year-end evaluation in closed session.