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2026-27 budget update

Battle Ground Public Schools

August 11, 2026

At a glance

  • $11.44 million decrease in annual budget as a result of levy failures

  • 268.3 staff positions cut over the last two years

  • State funding is not keeping pace with actual costs

  • District will need to make additional multimillion dollar budget cuts in future years unless new funding is received

Chief Financial Officer Michelle Scott and Lead Fiscal Accountant Cindy Klemz presented information on the proposed budget at a school board work session on Aug. 10, 2026. The board of directors will vote on the 2026-27 budget at their meeting on Aug. 24. This meeting will include an opportunity for public comment.

Battle Ground Public Schools faces critical budget challenges for the 2026-27 fiscal year and beyond, unless new revenue is received. The primary driver of the financial challenge is the loss of educational programs and operations levy funding. The district passed an extensive financial audit earlier in 2026.

BGPS faces a shortfall of more than $38 million for the 2026-27 school year. This shortfall is being addressed through significant budget cuts and use of the district's savings (also known as fund balance reserves).

About the proposed 2026-27 budget

  • More than 90% of the district's budget directly supports students and school operations: 71.2% goes to teaching activities and teaching support, while 19% is spent on student transportation, building maintenance and grounds, utilities and other forms of support.

  • Although the state provides more than 91% of district revenue, its 2.6% funding increase for the year does not mirror the district’s actual costs. The district is underfunded in areas including student transportation; special education; substitute coverage; and fuel, insurance, and utilities.

  • For 2026-27, the district expects about $213 million in revenue and about $227 million in spending. If the board approves the proposed budget, the $14 million gap would be covered through the use of fund balance reserves (savings). That would lower the fund balance below the percentage outlined in district policy.

  • Without new funding, another $13.3 million in cuts may be required in future years.

Read the full budget update and view the draft F-195 report.