Superintendent's Budget Advisory Committee Meeting June 3 2026

The Berkeley Unified School District held a Superintendent's Budget Advisory Committee meeting on June 3, 2026, focusing primarily on budget balancing strategies and contract updates related to student support programs. The committee reviewed proposals to meet a $10.4 million budget target through cost reallocations, identifying $11.2 million in savings, though only $5.4 million was ongoing. Key procurement discussions included proposed contract adjustments with Collegebound, reducing their contract from $100,000 to $50,000 for the 2026-27 school year by right-sizing services to actual student participation. The Bridge program was also discussed, with a proposed restructuring to reduce coordinator FTE while maintaining student support, funded through multiple sources including LCAP. The committee emphasized the need for clearer program criteria, improved data collection on service delivery, and sustainability of equity-focused initiatives. Public comments highlighted concerns about potential cuts to ethnic studies and support programs, urging the district to maintain funding for vulnerable student populations. The board was scheduled to take final budget action on June 17, 2026, with ongoing engagement planned with program staff to refine proposals.