Milwaukee board waives parts of administrative policy, holds schools harmless for FY26 deficits

The Milwaukee Board of School Directors voted unanimously June 18 to approve a package of finance actions that included authorizing purchases, accepting listed donations, directing continued reporting on revenues and expenditures through the October cycle, and waiving sections 4A and 4C of Administrative Policy 3.05 for fiscal year 2026.

Chair Zomber read a combined motion that directed the administration to hold schools harmless for deficits in their FY26 ending balances and to eliminate carryforward of any FY26 school or office surpluses; the motion also authorized paying obligations incurred in FY26 that were not received or carried forward, subject to FY27 budget allocations. Director Resza seconded the motion. The secretary called the roll; Directors Ferguson, H. Hearnden, Jackson, Resza, Seamson and Chair Zomber recorded votes in favor and the motion passed.

Superintendent Brenda Cassellia told the board the administration had worked with staff and the board president on the proposal and that the package was ready to move forward. The board did not amend the motion on the floor and proceeded after the vote.