School Board to review 2026-27 staff cuts, vote on policy changes April 14

The Edmonds School District Board of Directors at its meeting April 14 is set to review potential budget reductions ahead of the 2026-2027 school year and vote on changes to district policy, including the policy regarding students in foster care. 

Staff reductions

According to early estimates, District staff project a rough $223,000 shortfall for the 2026-27 budget, due in part to state regulations relating to academic performance among minority demographics. At Tuesday’s meeting, the Board will have a first review of a proposed reduced educational program for the upcoming school year, which recommends the district cut five full-time equivalent employees. 

District documents didn’t provide any information as to what positions would be cut. Typically, these details are kept confidential until the district concludes discussion with the impacted unions. 

Thanks to unexpected state funding, the District finished the 2025-26 school year with a surplus of about $2 million, a welcome ending balance compared to the initial projected deficit of around $8.5 million. Over the past few years the District has slashed over $25 million in staff and programs to keep up with state regulations and waning funds and to maintain a balanced budget. 

Policy changes 

The Board is also set to vote on changes to policy regarding students in foster care. The proposed changes reflect the Washington State School Directors’ Association’s updated model policy, to ensure these students receive proper care while at school, in compliance with state law. If approved, changes ensure foster care students have access to free meals and that staff are up-to-date with required training and policies. Further, the policy updates include changes to enrollment regulations, allowing flexibility for students to change schools if it’s in their best interest. 

View the full policy here. 

Also on the agenda is a first reading of proposed changes to a policy on the District’s learning assistance program. The changes are minor, only removing “outdated language” regarding COVID-19. 

Other business 

Additionally, the Board is set to approve an emergency waiver regarding closures at Hazelwood Elementary in November 2025 due to power outages. The meeting will conclude with a legislative update from Board Member Thom Garrard. 

View the meeting agenda here. 

The meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 14 in the district’s Educational Service Center: 20420 68th Ave. W., Lynnwood.

The meeting will also be livestreamed on the district’s website.

— Contact Ashley at [email protected].