By SDCN Editor
San Diego, CA–The Board of Education adopted a balanced budget this week, approving a $1.1 billion (unrestricted) spending plan for the 2024-25 school year that keeps intact core student-centered initiatives and programs in the San Diego Unified School District.
The board unanimously approved the budget on Tuesday, ensuring that schools continue to provide students with a high-quality education that includes visual and performing arts, 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 will remain in effect.
“Throughout the budget process, our board has remained steadfast in its commitment to ensuring all students can reach their full potential. 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 of Education President Shana Hazan said. “We recognize the importance of providing opportunities for all students to pursue their passions in areas including arts, athletics, and leadership development, and are proud this budget funds these activities.”
Like districts throughout California, San Diego Unified continues to be impacted by the loss of COVID-19 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 Dr. Lamont Jackson said. “I am grateful to our entire San Diego Unified community for their collaboration as we uphold our shared responsibility to foster conditions that allow all students to thrive.”
To maintain an open and transparent budget process, 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 budget workshops on the 2025-26 budget in October.
“We have much work ahead to overcome a significant deficit in the 2025-26 School Year,” Board President 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 at campuses 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 AP exam schedules. Under the new calendar, the first semester will end before winter break, allowing students to enjoy their break free from the obligations of end-of-semester projects and exams. The school year continues to include 180 instructional days.
