May 7, 2026 Board Business Meeting

The May 7, 2026 Board Business Meeting of the Gresham-Barlow School District focused heavily on budgetary and educational program issues. Key procurement-related discussions included approval of a collective bargaining agreement with the Oregon School Employees Association for 2026-2029, and the adoption of new social science curriculum materials with contracts totaling approximately $791,000 for a seven-year subscription. The board also approved tuition and fees for the 2026-2027 school year, maintaining current rates. A resolution was passed to temporarily reduce the district's required ending fund balance from 8% to 6.5% to provide budget flexibility for the current fiscal year, with a commitment to review this in the 2027-2028 budget process. Public comments highlighted concerns about proposed cuts to elementary music education and counseling services, urging the board to consider alternative funding measures such as a local mill levy. The meeting also included reports on grant awards from the Gresham-Barlow Education Foundation and updates on district financial status, emphasizing the need for fiscal responsibility amid funding challenges.