SD School Board Approves $1.1 Billion Spending Plan, Warns of Coming Shortfall

The San Diego Unified School District‘s board has approved a $1.1 billion spending plan for the upcoming school year that officials said keeps intact core initiatives and programs.

The board unanimously approved the budget Tuesday, officials said, maintaining visual and performing arts programs, Universal Transitional Kindergarten for all four-year-olds, summer and after-school enrichment programs and middle school sports.

Current class-size ratios, free college courses at every high school and no-cost breakfast and lunch for all students also will remain in effect.

“We have adopted a budget designed to measurably improve social-emotional and academic outcomes for our students, while reflecting the vision and values of our community,” board President Shana Hazan said.

She added that the board is “proud this budget funds” various activities, including arts, athletics and leadership development.

Like districts throughout California, SDUSD continues to be impacted by the loss of COVID funds, declining enrollment and a reduction in state revenue.

“Even under challenging circumstances, San Diego Unified will remain true to our unwavering commitment to prioritize students and ensure equity, while also maintaining fiscal responsibility and upholding the values of our district,” Superintendent Lamont Jackson said.

The district will issue its first report on the impact of the state’s final 2024-25 budget in August and will kick off a series of workshops in October on budget plans for the following school year.

The district anticipates a $176 million shortfall, according to materials presented to the board on Tuesday.

“We have much work ahead to overcome a significant deficit in the 2025-26 school year,” Hazan said. “We are committed to maintaining an inclusive and transparent year-round budget-development process.”

Included in the 2024-25 budget is a commitment to begin stabilizing teacher assignments before the start of the school year, to help curb disruptions that have historically occurred due to unexpected changes in enrollment.

The school year starts Aug. 12, a week earlier than last year under a new academic calendar that takes into account student well-being, community college schedules and Advanced Placement exam schedules.

The first semester will end before winter break, allowing students to enjoy their break free from the obligations of projects and exams. The school year continues to include 180 instructional days.