OCPS | 2026-04-28 School Board Work Session

The Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) Board held a work session on April 28, 2026, focusing primarily on budget priorities, staffing reductions, and the financial challenges facing the district. The board discussed a 3% budget cut across various divisions, resulting in the elimination of numerous positions and program reductions, with a total cut amounting to approximately $11.5 million. Key topics included the impact of declining state funding, underfunded mandates such as transportation and safe schools, and the district's self-insured employee benefits trust fund facing sustainability issues. The board also reviewed the financial implications of rising insurance claims and the trade-offs between insurance costs and employee compensation. Additionally, the session included a presentation and Q&A with the governing board of the proposed Achieve Point Virtual Academy North District Charter School, which aims to serve at-risk students through a virtual model with comprehensive academic and support services. The board also reviewed proposed updates to policy JICK related to threat management and student safety, aligning with recent state rule changes. No formal votes were taken during this work session, but several action items and follow-ups were noted, including further analysis of edtech spending, staffing impacts, and insurance program sustainability.