District Financial Update: Steady Improvements and More Work Ahead

Bellevue School District remains committed to transparency and fiscal responsibility. At our April 16, 2026, School Board meeting, we shared an update on our current financial status and what it means for students, families and staff as we plan ahead.

Where We Are Today 

Our financial position continues to improve steadily. As of the February 2026 financials: 

• District expenditures remain within projected revenues, reflecting disciplined budget management. 
• Compared to this time last year, the district is $10.8 million better positioned financially. 
• Our projected year-end total fund balance has increased significantly — from $1.3 million in November to $9.5 million in February. 
• The projected unassigned fund balance is $3.2 million. While this is an improvement, it remains below Board Policy 6022, which requires a fund balance of approximately 5% of annual expenditures (about $21 million). 

These gains reflect careful spending decisions, improved planning, and ongoing monitoring of revenues and expenses. 

Cash Flow 

Despite these improvements, the district is still relying on a $13 million interfund fund loan to manage monthly cash flow. At this time, we anticipate needing a similar loan next year. This underscores why rebuilding our fund balance remains a critical priority. 

Enrollment Update 

Enrollment is: 

• K-12 Full-Time Equivalent Enrollment (FTE) is higher than last year by 20. 
• Compared to October K-12 FTE is down by 50. 

Current projections indicate enrollment is expected to remain stable for the 2026–27 school year, which helps provide predictability for staffing and program planning. 

What This Means for Schools 

Based on current projections: 

• The district does not anticipate significant budget or staffing cuts for the 2026–27 school year. 
• We also do not anticipate class size increases next year. 

This stability is important for maintaining consistent learning environments while we continue working toward long-term financial sustainability. 

Looking Ahead 

While the near-term outlook is stable, future risks remain. Additional reductions may be necessary in the 2027–28 school year if the state does not address structural issues in the school funding model during the 2027 legislative session. District leadership will continue advocating at the state level while planning carefully and conservatively. 

Our Commitment 

Bellevue School District will continue to: 

• Monitor financial trends closely 
• Share regular updates with the community 
• Align spending with student needs and district priorities 
• Work toward rebuilding a healthy, policy-aligned fund balance 

We appreciate the ongoing support and engagement of our families, staff, and community as we navigate both progress and challenges together. 

Dr. Heather Sánchez, Chief Operating Officer
Mr. Loren Tillman, Interim Chief Financial Officer