Austin Packer Bulletin
March 21, 2026
Planning Ahead: Strengthening Austin Public Schools for the Future
Over the past several weeks, the School Board has reviewed updated financial information during Finance Committee and School Board meetings.
Based on current projections, the district expects about $4.2 million less in revenue for the 2026–27 school year.
Two factors are driving this change:
- Declining student enrollment (approximately $1.7 million)
- Changes in the state’s compensatory funding formula (approximately $2.5 million)
Earlier this winter, the district shared preliminary information regarding possible changes in compensatory funding. These numbers are still being finalized by the state, and we continue monitoring them closely.
To help summarize what we are seeing, here is a quick overview of the main budget and the district's response.
At a Glance: 2026–2027 Budget Planning
Projected revenue changes
- Enrollment decline: about $1.7 million
- Compensatory funding formula change: about $2.5 million
Total projected adjustment: $4.2 million
How the district is responding
- Reviewing operational spending and efficiencies
- Reducing supply budgets
- Making operational adjustments
- Aligning staffing with enrollment
Financial stability
The district's fund balance expected to remain at or above School Board policy. Maintaining a healthy fund balance helps the district manage unexpected costs and protect stable school operations.
Understanding Enrollment Trends
Over the past two school years, Austin Public Schools experienced higher-than-expected enrollment. However, a recent demographic, housing, and enrollment study confirms that our community's long-term trend is a gradual decline in enrollment.
One key factor is declining birth rates. Since 2010, births within the district have fallen by nearly 29 percent.
Because of this, the enrollment numbers we are planning around today reflect long-term demographic trends affecting communities across Minnesota.
What Right-Sizing Means
School funding in Minnesota is closely tied to student enrollment. In Minnesota, most school funding follows the student, meaning enrollment changes directly affect the resources districts receive.
Austin Public Schools is recommending a right-sizing plan that aligns staffing, programs, and operations with the number of students we serve and the funding available.
This will likely include:
- Reductions in supply budgets
- Operational adjustments
- Staffing reductions across the district
These decisions are never easy. Our goal is to make thoughtful adjustments now so we can protect classroom learning and maintain strong schools for students in the years ahead. This work reflects our Strategic Plan and our commitment to Excellence in Resource Management.
We also recognize that budget changes can create uncertainty for our teachers and staff. They care deeply about our students and our community, and we are committed to communicating openly and supporting them through this process.
Responsible Stewardship
The district may also use a portion of its existing fund balance as a bridge while these adjustments take place. Even with this approach, the district is expected to maintain a general fund balance at or above the level required by School Board policy. Responsible financial stewardship helps ensure Austin Public Schools remain strong for students, families/caregivers, and the community.
Looking Ahead
Schools grow and change as communities do. Throughout this work, every decision will be guided by what best supports students and their learning.
Austin Public Schools remain focused on:
- Strong learning opportunities for students
- Support for staff and families/caregivers
- Responsible use of resources
We also welcome constructive questions and feedback from our community as this work moves forward. Public schools belong to the community, and open communication helps ensure we make thoughtful decisions together.
In closing, our responsibility is to care for our schools wisely, so they remain strong not just today, but for the next generation of students. Thoughtful planning now helps ensure Austin Public Schools continue to inspire, empower, and accelerate every learner as they grow and prepare to make a difference in the world.
Sincerely,
Dr. Joey Page, Superintendent
At its March 9 meeting, the School Board approved moving forward with long-term maintenance and health and safety projects under Minnesota’s Long-Term Facilities Maintenance authority and using abatement and capital bonds to support additional facility improvements across the district.
As previously shared, these projects address aging systems that must be maintained regardless of the outcome of the November 2025 referendum. This action ensures we continue to meet our responsibility to provide safe and functional learning environments.
Approved work includes:
- Updating or replacing air handling systems at Banfield, Neveln, Southgate, Ellis Middle School, the Austin High School, and the Annex.
- Repair and repave parking lots and sidewalks that impact accessibility at Banfield, Woodson, Ellis Middle School, and Austin High School.
Minnesota law provides this authority so districts can maintain critical building systems without waiting to hold an election every time a roof or boiler fails. It protects students and staff and helps prevent more costly repairs in the future. For a home valued at $200,000, the projected annual impact is approximately $7.42 per month or $89 per year. Taxpayers will see this increase reflected on property tax statements in 2027.
These projects do not expand the district’s footprint. They do not add new buildings or programs. They do not reduce classroom funding. They address systems beyond their useful life that are necessary to operate our schools safely and responsibly.
Additionally, Minnesota law also allows school boards, with approval from the Commissioner of Education, to issue capital bonds for specific, limited capital improvements.
In this case, these funds will support restroom renovations at Banfield or Southgate, improvements at Neveln and Sumner, and upgrades to the electrical systems at the Austin High School Annex. For taxpayers, the key point is this: The capital bonds approved by the Board do not increase the district’s tax levy. They are structured within existing levy limits under state law.
At the same time, the Board will continue to explore a reduced, more focused bond referendum for November 2026. That future discussion may address additional facility needs and potential classroom improvements that go beyond maintenance and safety. Any proposal will reflect community feedback from last year’s vote and aim to responsibly balance student needs with taxpayer impact. We will continue to share details as timelines are finalized.
It's time for another Packercast! In this episode, we sit down with AHS REACH Teacher and APDT Coach Kayla Sellers.
Austin Public Schools serves students who speak many languages, and that diversity strengthens our schools. Our Language Instruction Educational Program (LIEP) outlines how we support students who are learning English so they can access learning, participate fully in school life, and continue building strong academic skills.
A few reminders about how the program works:
- Austin Public Schools serves a multilingual community. The LIEP program helps students learning English build the skills they need to succeed in class and participate fully in school life.
- Students are identified through a clear process. When families/caregivers enroll, they complete a Minnesota Language Survey. If another language is spoken at home, the district may assess English proficiency to determine whether support services are appropriate.
- Students receive targeted support. Services may include instruction from licensed English Learner teachers, small-group language development, and support connected to classroom learning.
- Progress is monitored each year. Students participate in a statewide assessment that measures growth in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
- Families/caregivers are partners in the process. Parents receive information about services and student progress, and always have the right to ask questions or discuss their child’s program.
As students develop strong academic English skills, services adjust and eventually phase out once students reach full proficiency. This work reflects Austin Public Schools’ commitment to making sure every student has the support needed to learn, grow, and contribute to our community.
Families/caregivers who would like to learn more are encouraged to review the full plan here. If you have questions about English Learner services or your child’s support, please contact the Coordinator of K-4 Curriculum and EL Services, Ashley Kaplan.
At the March 9 School Board meeting, the Board approved the 2027–2028 school calendar. This calendar provides families/caregivers and staff with long-range planning information and helps the district coordinate scheduling, programming, and major events well in advance.
Parents and community members are invited to attend a Project Graduation volunteer meeting on Wednesday, March 25, at 5:15 PM in the Austin Public Library Meeting Room.
Project Graduation has been organized by community volunteers since 1989 and provides graduating seniors from AHS, AOA, ALC, and Pacelli with an opportunity to celebrate together in a safe, fun environment following graduation.
This year’s Project Graduation celebration will take place at Austin High School on May 29 after the graduation ceremony. The event requires many volunteers throughout the evening and into the early morning hours.
Community members do not need to have a senior to be involved. Many volunteers support the event while their students are in grades 7–11, helping keep this long-standing community tradition going. Parents of seniors are also welcome to help and see the celebration firsthand.
If you cannot attend the meeting but would like to get involved, please contact the volunteer co-chairs:
- monicaslillis@gmail.com
- kathy.ewing@austin.k12mn.us
