The Rincon Valley Union School District in Santa Rosa has announced a “negative certification,” becoming the first Sonoma County school system this year to confirm it cannot afford operating costs in the next two fiscal years.
The Press Democrat reports the TK-8 district, serving 3,200 students, is grappling with an $8.5 million deficit—about 8% of its budget—and depleted reserves. The certification triggers intervention from the Sonoma County Office of Education to help stabilize the budget.
To address the shortfall, the district plans to make $4.3 million in cuts next year, with the closure of a school site anticipated to make the biggest dent. Officials are also seeking concessions from unions, including reductions in work days and a cap on health benefits.
The financial struggles mirror challenges facing other Sonoma County districts, including Santa Rosa City Schools, due to declining enrollment and rising costs. Rincon Valley officials hope to identify enough cuts by March to avoid a clearer risk of state takeover.
