Caledonia board adopts 2026–27 budget, staff warns of $250,000 provisional deficit

The Caledonia Public School District school board unanimously approved the district’s 2026–27 budget on Tuesday, with district staff saying the adopted plan reflects several positions that are not yet filled.

Barb, speaking during the budget discussion, said the district budgeted for positions that currently are vacant and that “if those positions hadn’t been filled … we would only have a deficit spend of 250,000.” She also told the board the district has “healthy fund balances” and plans to revise the budget during February–March next year as revenue and staffing become clearer.

Melissa moved to adopt the budget as presented; the motion was seconded and carried 7–0. The board followed its usual practice of approving an initial budget and making a formal revision once more data is available.

Why it matters: Adopting a budget with unfilled positions is a common local-government practice that lets school districts finalize staffing and spending plans while retaining flexibility; the staff’s estimate of a $250,000 contingent deficit highlights where shortfalls could appear if vacancies are filled or revenue changes.

Details: Barb said compensatory revenue and other estimates were still evolving at the time of the meeting. The board did not change staffing levels during the vote and instructed staff to return with a revised budget next winter if revenues or staffing patterns change.

The board took the vote at the meeting’s action-item session; the motion passed unanimously.