11/2/2026: School Board Work Session

The Anchorage School District Board’s November 2, 2026 work session focused on the student nutrition program and an action item in Memorandum 59 requesting a transfer to close out FY26, including the student nutrition fund and other transfers. Staff reported that the program’s recent annual budget has been about $29 million and explained that FY26 expenses increased while federal reimbursement revenue fell short, driven by eligibility changes, delayed revenue information, and incomplete forecasting assumptions. The transcript does not record a vote on the transfer request. Staff described steps to improve financial oversight and forecasting, including hiring a dedicated student nutrition accountant, engaging BDO for recommendations, and seeking third-party expertise; no contract amount or vendor award was stated.

Board members discussed future funding choices, the trade-offs of possible program changes, more frequent financial reporting, and the need to balance meal access against other district priorities. Staff said they would provide updated projections and options to inform FY28 budgeting and seek board guidance on the level of local support. The session also covered federal reimbursement pressures and Alaska House Bill 12, a proposal for free school meals; no procurement award or purchasing decision was identified. The board adjourned to executive session for legal updates, negotiations, and contracts.