School Board Meeting June 30, 2026

The Columbia Heights Public Schools Board held a meeting on June 30, 2026, where several procurement and budget-related items were discussed and approved. Key procurement actions included approval of a $336,300 purchase of staff technology devices funded by the capital projects levy, reflecting a 20% cost increase due to supply chain and tariff impacts. The board also approved a resolution to update the population estimate for levy revenue purposes, resulting in a modest increase in funding. Additionally, the board approved a new operating levy referendum to be presented to voters in November, aimed at offsetting significant losses in compensatory aid and stabilizing district finances. The preliminary budget for fiscal year 2027 was reviewed, highlighting a projected $9 million deficit across all funds, driven largely by reduced state aid and enrollment declines. The board also approved closing the transition program to open enrollment due to capacity constraints. These actions demonstrate the board's focus on managing financial challenges while maintaining essential educational services and technology infrastructure.