Deming Public Schools board adopts FY27 operating budget, prioritizes safety and special education supports

The Deming Public Schools Board of Education on Wednesday approved the district's FY27 operating budget, directing recurring and one-time funds to school safety, special education supports and classroom instruction.

District finance staff told the board the budget reflects a 3.5% increase in the state unit value and a small membership decline; rising insurance costs and a 1% across-the-board salary increase were flagged as recurring pressures. Presenters said the board would use some cash-balance funding for pilot investments to test effectiveness before making them recurring.

Board discussion centered on priorities the district identified during the budget process: student and staff safety; school culture and tier-one instruction; and special-education leadership and compliance. The budget includes investment in six new teacher FTEs (mainly elementary), an additional assistant principal position at a large elementary school, security staffing and targeted professional development.

Finance staff noted recurring cost drivers: insurance-rate increases, liability insurance and the cost of adding operationally funded positions when federally funded positions rise. The staff presentation emphasized submitting a complete budget packet to the New Mexico Public Education Department on the required timeline.

Board members who spoke during the discussion expressed support for the safety and instruction priorities and asked for continued monitoring of enrollment and recurring obligations. The board moved, seconded and adopted the FY27 operating budget by roll call vote.

The board is expected to monitor implementation and schedule follow-up reports on the effectiveness of pilot investments and on enrollment trends that affect recurring revenue.