Looking Ahead

As we close out another successful school year and plan for the future, we want to share an update on Ridgeline’s financial outlook and reaffirm our commitment to the students and families we serve.

In a time of uncertainty for many public schools, Ridgeline remains strong and steady. Across Oregon and locally at Eugene School District 4J, school districts are facing serious financial challenges:

• Shifts in state and federal funding

• Declining enrollment

• Resulting in budget shortfalls, program reductions, staffing cuts, and use of reserves

Ridgeline shares many of the same challenges—and more—as a public charter school:

• We receive only 80% of the state funding allocated to traditional public schools

• We are fully responsible for maintaining our school facilities

• Ridgeline receives no direct federal funding

Impact of federal cuts:

• Ridgeline’s budget is not directly affected by current federal cuts

• However, we access services through 4J (e.g., special education and Community Eligibility Provision for school meals) that are partially funded by federal dollars

Good news:

• No federal cuts are anticipated at this time

• Both 4J and Ridgeline are monitoring the situation closely

• 4J’s School Board recently adopted a Special Education Resolution focused on improving outcomes for students with disabilities—a goal Ridgeline strongly supports

• In 2025–26, Ridgeline will be fully staffed in special education, including an additional 0.5 FTE teacher

• Ridgeline remains committed to ensuring that students who qualify for free or reduced meals continue to receive them, regardless of changes to federal funding

• 4.8% increase in revenue (excluding reserves)

• $100,000 fundraising goal to support:

• Art

• PE

• Montessori materials & training

• Facility improvements

• 3% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) and step increases for eligible staff

• Assistant hours maintained at 7.5 per day

• Use of reserves for capital improvements:

• Relocating the Learning Center for greater accessibility

• Improving shared storage areas

• Ongoing CEP partnership with 4J and a contingency plan to protect meal access for qualifying students

Ridgeline’s enrollment remains strong at 250 students, and nearly all staff are returning next year—a testament to the strength of our community’s shared commitment to public Montessori education and to Ridgeline’s core values.

We continue to be guided by:

• Equity

• Access

• Inclusion

• Belonging

The Oregon Department of Education (ODE) and Oregon School Boards Association (OSBA) continue to monitor the evolving educational landscape. Their support emphasizes the importance of ensuring that all students have access to meaningful, inclusive, and equitable education.

Ridgeline’s commitment to these principles is unwavering.

In a time when many schools face reductions, we are grateful to report stability, continuity, and alignment with Ridgeline’s values and priorities. We are in this position thanks to the collective efforts of our staff, board, budget committee, and our families—each of you who continues to support the vision of a joyful, inclusive Montessori community.

With appreciation,

Chrystell Reed

Executive Director