Grand Forks Public Schools Finalize Budget Realignment Amid $4.4M Deficit

As Grand Forks Public Schools approaches the conclusion of its budget realignment process, district leaders are emphasizing the collective effort required to address the anticipated **$4.4 million** deficit for the **2025-2026** budget. This comprehensive initiative, which began in **August** 2023, has engaged both district staff and School Board members in extensive discussions and planning to ensure fiscal sustainability.

Collaboration and Commitment

The budget realignment process has necessitated significant dedication from all parties involved. District Business Manager **Brandon Baumbach** noted that while the administrative team and board members are pushing to finalize the budget, the commitment extends beyond leadership roles. “People work very hard in the district every day, and sometimes for our teachers and staff that carries over to evening work for them too,” Baumbach stated. He emphasized that everyone must contribute extra time to navigate the complexities of public education funding.

To date, the school board has hosted four of five budget retreats, in addition to a special meeting that focused exclusively on public input. Frequent discussions on budget priorities have taken place at regular School Board meetings, with the administrative team engaging with principals and staff to gather insights. **Dave Berger**, School Board President, expressed the importance of preparation, stating, “We’ve been preparing for these conversations since last August.” He added that the workload has been substantial, and anyone joining the process at this stage would face considerable challenges.

Public Engagement and Financial Transparency

The district has encouraged public participation, recognizing that community advocacy plays a crucial role in shaping budgetary decisions. Berger remarked, “When we have one or two people during our public comment period, we could say that there are probably three to four times as many emails that week.” This level of public engagement, he believes, fosters a necessary dialogue around educational funding.

Baumbach highlighted his responsibility to provide board members with clear financial data, stating, “Making the books available” is essential for informed decision-making. He actively listens to public comments and anticipates potential questions, ensuring that he is well-prepared to address concerns during meetings. “The tricky part is… where do I think the conversation could go?” he explained.

The ongoing budget discussions come in the wake of challenges posed by the **COVID-19 pandemic**, which have exacerbated pressures on public education funding. Baumbach pointed out that the demands placed on educators and staff have increased significantly. “What these teachers, these students, these professionals work through each and every day would drop the jaw of most people,” he noted. The emotional toll of navigating these challenges is profound, underscoring the dedication required by those in the field.

The fifth and final School Board retreat is scheduled for **January 16, 2024**, from **08:00 to 12:00** at the **First Presbyterian Church** located at **5555 S. Washington**. This meeting will be open to the public, allowing for additional community input. Individuals interested in providing comments or inquiries regarding the budget realignment can do so during regular School Board meetings or through the Grand Forks Public Schools budget realignment website.

As the district moves towards finalizing its budget, the collaborative efforts and resilience of its staff and community will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of education in Grand Forks.