Juneau School District proposes FY 26 budget with funding adjustments and reduced pupil teacher ratio

The Assembly Finance Committee of Juneau City and Borough convened on April 6, 2025, to discuss the proposed budget for the fiscal year 2026, focusing on educational funding and resource allocation for the Juneau School District.

The meeting began with a discussion on the anticipated increase of $400 to the base student allocation (BSA). Board members highlighted that they have prepared a priority list for potential budget adjustments should additional revenue be secured. This list aims to address various needs within the district, reflecting a proactive approach to financial planning.

Key points of the budget presentation included maintaining staffing levels comparable to the previous school year and a reduction in the pupil-teacher ratio for grades 4 through 6, from 30:1 to 28:1. The budget request from the district totals $35,004,712 for general school operations, marking an increase of $572,673 from the revised budget of the previous year. This increase is attributed to a rise in the taxable property value within the city and borough.

The district also requested $2,115,000 for non-instructional programs, which include student activities, transportation, and food services. Notably, the funding request for non-instructional shared services has decreased by over $1 million compared to the previous fiscal year.

During the meeting, concerns were raised regarding the transportation budget, which remained at $200,000 despite the closure of two schools. The district explained that the number of transportation routes has not significantly changed, necessitating the same funding level. Additionally, the funding for the "Learn to Swim" program was reduced from $75,000 to $50,000, prompting discussions about the importance of swimming education in a coastal community.

The committee also addressed the consolidation of schools and its impact on student activities. The district assured that it would maintain funding levels for high school activities to ensure continued access for students, despite the reduction in the number of schools.

In closing, the district emphasized its commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility, noting that it recently completed an audit without a deficit for the first time in years. The budget reflects the district's dedication to providing meaningful educational experiences for all students.

The meeting concluded with expressions of gratitude from the district to the assembly for their ongoing support, setting the stage for further discussions on the budget in the coming weeks.