Omaha Public Schools Board of Education Budget Hearing 9-10-2026

The Omaha Public Schools Board of Education held a budget hearing on September 10, 2026, to discuss the proposed 2026-2027 budgets and property tax requests for Douglas County School District 1, Omaha Public Schools, and Educational Service Unit (ESU) 19. The hearing focused heavily on the district's financial challenges due to a $50.6 million reduction in state aid caused by a correction in state funding calculations. To offset this loss, the district proposed an 8.2% increase in the property tax levy, raising the general fund levy back to the $15 lid, which is expected to generate sufficient revenue to support a modest 1.18% budget increase primarily allocated to staff compensation. The budget also includes increased funding for special education services and student transportation, while maintaining a strong reserve balance for financial security. Public comments included concerns about the tax increase and the effectiveness of district initiatives such as the moonshot literacy program. The board acknowledged the need for careful budget management and ongoing financial planning to address future uncertainties.