Kennewick School District School Board Meeting: June 24, 2026

The Kennewick School District School Board held a meeting on June 24, 2026, primarily focused on the adoption of the 2026-2027 budget and related financial planning. The board reviewed detailed budget projections, including enrollment declines impacting revenue by approximately $3 million, increased costs in special education, health insurance, and maintenance, and a planned $2 million transfer from the general fund to capital projects for facility upkeep. The board also discussed the challenges of state funding shortfalls, with the district receiving about 50% of total education costs from the state. Additionally, the board approved an action plan to mitigate lead in drinking water across the district. Policy reviews were conducted with no changes proposed, moving several policies from first to second reading. The meeting included presentations on student academic growth goals and curriculum challenges, as well as updates on kindergarten enrollment and ongoing negotiations with the instructors' association. Motions to approve the budget and the lead mitigation plan passed unanimously, reflecting the board's commitment to fiscal responsibility and student safety.