North Wasco County SD 21 budget approved after committee reconvenes; literacy plan emphasized

Molly Rogers, chair of the North Wasco County SD 21 Budget Committee, reconvened the committee on May 19, 2026 and explained that a May 12 vote to approve the 2026–27 budget did not meet the statutory requirement of a majority of the total seated committee under OAR 150-294-450-0450 and ORS 294.426, so the committee reopened the budget for further deliberation.

Dr. Bernal delivered the budget message and framed the spending plan around literacy. "Our commitment is simple. Highquality evidence-based literacy instruction for every student, supported by trained staff, strong systems, and data informed intervention," he said, describing a guaranteed 90-minute elementary literacy block, a protected 30-minute intervention period, structured small-group interventions delivered by trained instructional assistants, multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS), professional learning communities and training in the science of reading.

Committee members asked questions about specific budget risks and program sustainability. Jared raised concerns that the district may be underbudgeting transportation fuel, citing current pump prices near $6 per gallon and saying prices may not fall to previous levels; CFO Dan Peterson responded that the district expects state and user reimbursements that reduce net cost, that the district is in the 70% reimbursement tier, and that midyear adjustments could be considered if prices remain high.

Katie Kelly asked how many full-time equivalent positions had been moved from the general fund into grants and whether those roles are sustainable; staff did not have the number at the meeting and committed to follow up by email. Kelly also confirmed that the $1 million beginning fund balance shown in the proposed budget is before the district’s tax anticipation note.

Kevin Kramer pressed for cost details on the district’s dual language immersion program, saying such programs may cost about 12% more per student and raising concerns about class size and support staff. Chair Rogers and staff clarified that detailed programmatic decisions and staffing allocations are policy matters for the board, not the budget committee, and that the board could initiate a separate review.

The committee proceeded to action. Jeff Cookenower moved that the proposed budget for North Wasco County SD 21 for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026, be approved in the aggregate amount of $64,896,163 and that ad valorem property taxes be levied at the rate of $5.2399 per $1,000 of taxable assessed value in support of the general fund; Bauricio Jose seconded the motion.

Ranada conducted a roll call vote. The chair summarized the result as nine yes votes, one no, one abstention and one member disconnected during the roll call; the motion passed. Chair Rogers thanked committee members and staff; the committee adjourned.

The budget and related documents will proceed to the full district board for its consideration and any further policy actions.