New School Superintendent takes office School Budget okayed

Anacortes School Board approved a $51 million budget for the 2025-2026 school year during the swearing-in of new Superintendent Dr. Carl Bruner on Thursday. CFO Brian Fraser noted that while the budget was predictable, financial challenges persist due to increasing costs. The district's funding structure relies heavily on state support, which makes up 73% of its total income, supplemented by local taxes and limited federal funding. A substantial portion, over 86%, of budget expenses is allocated to staff salaries and benefits.

Despite staff reductions in recent years, the teacher-to-student ratio has remained nearly unchanged, with a ratio of 14. 37 expected for the upcoming school year compared to 14. 60 in 2023-2024. The district maintains a policy of keeping 4% of funds in reserve, but the year-end fund balance has plummeted to 1. 47%, up slightly from 1.

31% in 2022-2023. This decrease raises concerns about financial sustainability and future budget cuts. Local stakeholders will need to monitor the district's financial health closely as they navigate these challenges.