Board renews contract with Iowa Judicial Branch for school liaisons but hears warning about rising local share

The Sioux City Community School District Board of Education on April 13 approved a renewal of the district’s contract with the Iowa Judicial Branch to provide up to seven full‑time equivalent school liaison officers for the 2026–27 school year.

James Klein, who identified himself as principal of North Middle School, and Superintendent Vanderloo described the contract structure and funding. Klein summarized the renewal; Vanderloo explained the original intent of the agreement was for the state to pay 75 percent of the cost with the district covering 25 percent, but said that over time those percentages have shifted. “We’re actually paying for close to 50% of that contract,” Vanderloo said, adding that the district would need to analyze what services are required and how to continue meeting student needs next school year.

Board member questions focused on the funding shift and how it affects district budgeting. The board approved the renewal by voice vote; the motion passed 6-0.

Why it matters: The contract supports school liaison/SRO positions that affect day‑to‑day safety and student support, and district leaders signaled the local budgetary burden has grown, which could affect staffing and services next year.