Santa Rosa City Schools are facing potential budget challenges as state funding projections come in lower than expected.
Officials learned at a recent board meeting that the state’s revised budget, while still showing an increase from last year, includes a lower cost-of-living adjustment. Additionally, changes to special education funding at the county level will result in a $1.8 million deficit next year, potentially rising to $4 million the following year.
Despite these setbacks, the district is still expected to receive more state money overall. However, the volatility of the state budget, especially with potential allocations for fire relief, means these numbers could change. The district is also grappling with the loss of one-time funding, which has contributed to their ongoing deficit.
Officials are now exploring ways to mitigate the special education funding loss and will provide further updates at an upcoming study session.
