SLPS FIscal Year 2026-2027 Virtual Commnunity Budget Forum - April 21, 2026

The Saint Louis Public Schools held a virtual community budget forum on April 21, 2026, to discuss the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget proposal. The meeting focused on explaining the district's budgeting process, including general operating and grants budgets, and highlighted key expenditure areas such as employee salaries, benefits, transportation, technology refresh, and capital outlay. The district presented two budget scenarios differing mainly in central office vacancy fill rates and discussed a projected $10 million increase in general operating revenue alongside a $19.8 million increase in expenditures due to negotiated salary increases, transportation costs, and shifting funding sources. The forum also addressed the district's plan to request community approval for a bond issuance to fund capital improvements, including school renovations, safety enhancements, and new facilities, emphasizing fiscal responsibility and sustainability. Community questions covered topics such as staffing vacancies, school consolidation, security measures, and the impact of educational technology. The district committed to ongoing community engagement and transparent planning to ensure well-resourced schools and sustainable operations moving forward.