School Board Presents FY 2026 Budget to City Council - March 24, 2025

School Board Chair Tate Gould presents the FY 2026 budget to City Council. Key highlights include:Budget meets City Council's 5.9% guidance for the seventh consecutive yearEnrollment is at its highest level in years, with projections for 159 additional students next yearBudget includes funding for additional teachers and staff to maintain low student-teacher ratiosEmployee compensation includes step increases and 2.5% COLA, averaging 5% total increaseLocal transfer comprises 79.8% of school budget, lowest percentage in eight yearsStrategic reductions in salary lapse and summer school redesign help offset growth costsSuperintendent Dr. Peter Noonan, in his final budget presentation before retirement, emphasized the district's commitment to serving students "by name and by need" while maintaining fiscal responsibility.City Manager Wyatt Shields noted that Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School debt will be retired this year, marking a significant milestone for the community.