School districts across the state are facing financial challenges due in part to lower-than-expected state and federal funding. While the dollar amount will increase for 2025-27, K-12 funding is far below post-McLeary levels of nearly a decade ago. Inflation, fewer students and a state model that does not fully fund all staff nor extracurriculars, music, arts, athletics, and other programs create a challenging environment for Washington schools. The HSD aims to balance its 2026-27 Budget by:
Prioritizing cuts furthest from student programs.
While there will be personnel reductions, the goal is to minimize the elimination of positions. To retain valued team members some staff may be reassigned to new positions in the district.
Deferring technology and curriculum replacement cycles.
Trimming building and department budgets. Wherever possible, the district will look to cover expenses using grant and levy funding.
Scaling back utilities, paper use, tech subscriptions, and non-essential maintenance.
View Superintendent Steve Marshall’s message to staff and families here, and view the new HSD Budget webpage here.