Board backs Branch ISD 2026–27 budget; approves buses, facility and equipment purchases

The Coldwater Board of Education on May 18 voted to support the Branch Intermediate School District’s preliminary 2026–27 budget after a presentation from district leaders that framed the plan as an investment in special education, career and technical programs and staff capacity.

Evelyn Jones, assistant superintendent of finance and operations for Branch ISD, told the board that the budget assumes a 5% increase in property tax revenue to special education and related funds and a placeholder 3% salary increase for staff while negotiations continue. She said federal funding for some programs is expected to remain stable but the general fund anticipates reductions in certain federal revenue streams.

"The 2026–27 preliminary budget is our plan for how Branch ISD will continue supporting students, staff, and local districts in the coming year," Jones said, explaining that the proposal directs resources toward the Walden Learning Center, the area career center, early childhood programs and additional transportation capacity.

Jones described a projected revenue of $24,500,000 against expenditures of $26,200,000 for a near $1,500,000 deficit the ISD characterized as a deliberate investment to increase staff capacity to meet student needs.

Board members asked logistics questions about two vans included in the plan — whether they would be used for field trips or to reduce students' long bus ride times — and were told the vans are being considered to shorten certain routes and to avoid the need for CDL bus drivers. Board members also discussed accessibility outfitting such as wheelchair restraints and harnesses.

Votes at a glance

- Branch ISD 2026–27 budget: Board supported the ISD’s proposed budget (roll call; motion passed). (topic provenance: presentation SEG 016–183; vote SEG 844–872)
- Purchase of two new buses: Approved (one special-education bus $174,002.93; one general-education bus $159,101). (SEG 1237–1261)
- Access-control installation for the aquatic center: Approved ($17,331). (SEG 1203–1236)
- Replacement 2-door reach-in freezer for Max Larson Elementary: Approved ($6,736.17). (SEG 1009–1037)
- Gym floor restoration quotes and helmet reconditioning: Approved (multiple vendor quotes; total helmet reconditioning $11,831.70). (SEG 923–1000; SEG 1114–1164)

The board approved additional course changes and program purchases tied to student supports: an integrated math 1–3 sequence at Collier High School, an eighth-grade digital literacy for STEM course at the middle school, and purchases to support PBIS implementation across multiple schools funded through Title I, Title IV and other grant funds ($17,930.70).

Superintendent remarks and next steps

Superintendent noted a failed bond effort and said staff are meeting with architects and construction managers to reassess high-school needs (roofing, HVAC and learning-space options) before bringing revised options to the building-and-grounds committee. He also reminded the public of a scheduled public hearing on the proposed budget at 5:30 p.m. on June 22 at the Administrative Service Center (401 Soft River Drive), followed by the regular board meeting at 6:00 p.m.