SBAC Meeting April 29, 2026

The Berkeley Unified School District's SBAC meeting on April 29, 2026, focused extensively on budget adjustments, staffing reductions, and program funding reallocations. Key procurement-related discussions included the rescinding of several positions across certificated and classified staff, with a reduction from 205 to 45 potentially impacted certificated employees and from 48 to fewer than a third originally noticed for classified layoffs. The district reviewed funding scenarios for programs such as cooking and gardening, afterschool programs, and special education, with proposals to shift some costs to alternative funding sources like ELOP and PTA funds. Cost-saving measures were also discussed, including moving ergonomic evaluations in-house and tightening copier and print shop expenses, aiming to save approximately $867,000 annually. The committee planned further contract reviews and proposals in upcoming meetings, with a focus on balancing the budget while maintaining service levels. Public comments highlighted concerns about proposed cuts to the Bridge program, emphasizing equity and inclusion. The meeting concluded with plans for continued discussions and voting on budget proposals in May.