October 6, 2026 DMPS Board Work Session

The October 6, 2026 DMPS Board work session focused first on enrollment data and governance. Staff reviewed the distinction between certified enrollment, which drives state funding, and served enrollment, which better reflects students in classrooms. They reported long-term enrollment declines, including approximately 1,300 fewer students served this fall, alongside budget pressure: operating funds have risen 12.41% since 2019 while costs have increased by more than twice that rate. Board members discussed state enrollment-law changes, the uncertain effect of a new second count date, student retention and exit patterns, and the need to understand why families leave. Staff described an enrollment task force and a market-research RFP in development to gather additional insight; no contract award, RFP decision, or spending approval was made. The board expects to continue the data review and develop a strategic response, potentially involving staffing or building consolidation.

The second work session considered a proposed annual framework for board community engagement and outreach, including listening for community vision and values and attending school and neighborhood events. Board members supported further development while calling for faster feedback loops for recurring family concerns and broader state- and federal-level outreach. The committee will reconvene and return with a more detailed calendar recommendation and resource needs; the framework was not formally adopted during this session. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, without objection.