March 23, 2026 Study Session - Part 2
Monday, March 23, 2026
2026-27 budget and staffing updates
Single federal audit report
Board budget
Levy survey update structure
Kindergarten enrollment projections
Secondary enrollment trends
Elementary school consolidation impact
Staffing reduction strategies
Compensatory education funding
Special education staffing requirements
Areas of Interest (5)
- District faces third consecutive year of over $4 million in budget cuts, prompting internal and community strain.
- Declining enrollment trends in Minnesota forcing consolidation and staff reductions across elementary and secondary levels.
- Questions raised over long-term staffing levels compared to 2017 levels, specifically regarding the addition of specialized coordinator roles.
- Potential impact of compensatory aid reduction and advocacy for legislative 'hold harmless' status for 2027.
- Uncertainty in kindergarten enrollment projections causing districts to create 'precautionary' budget adjustments.
Notable Quotes (2)
We are in a really challenging situation where we are having to make some really tough decisions.
Budget overviewOpening statement regarding the budget crisis.
This is the third year that we're looking at over $4 million in reductions.
Budget reductionsContextualizing the multi-year fiscal impact.
People (3)
Director RyderDirectorPresented enrollment projections and budget adjustments for 2026-27.
Presented enrollment projections and budget adjustments for 2026-27.
Director CatherineDirectorAssisted with presentation of staffing reduction recommendations.
Assisted with presentation of staffing reduction recommendations.
Director SmithBoard MemberParticipated in the discussion regarding the structure of the budget review process.
Participated in the discussion regarding the structure of the budget review process.
Places Mentioned
Westwood SchoolMinnesota (State)
Events & Meetings (1)
- April 13th board meeting (upcoming approval of staffing changes)