Northshore School District School Study Session November 9, 2026

The Northshore School District Board held a study session on November 9, 2026, to review the 2025–26 year-end fiscal results, update the 2026–27 projection, and begin developing the 2027–28 budget. Staff reported that the district’s general fund is projected to remain above its 3% minimum balance through 2028–29, while expenditures are expected to outpace revenues in three of the next four years, with the balance potentially falling below 3% in 2029–30. The district cited declining enrollment, rising operating costs, and state funding that does not keep pace with expenses as key budget pressures. The 2025–26 ending fund balance was reported as $24.8 million; the 2026–27 projection was about $26.3 million. Staff also said they do not anticipate needing a short-term loan this year.

Board members discussed revising the budget guiding principles to emphasize long-term fiscal health, responsible school operations aligned with available funding, and the purpose of maintaining a 3% fund balance. The discussion was advisory; no formal vote or spending decision was reported. The board favored a brief January check-in on the guiding principles. No contracts, vendor selections, bids, or other procurement activity were identified.