The Sonoma County Office of Education has officially accepted a positive budget certification for Santa Rosa City Schools, marking a major shift from the district’s previous “negative” status.
The Press Democrat reports following $35.6 million in aggressive cuts and over 120 layoffs, the district appears able to meet its financial obligations for the next three years. However, county officials issued the approval with “grave concerns,” noting that the district still lacks the state-mandated 3% emergency reserve for the current year.
While the district has avoided a projected cash depletion that once signaled a possible state takeover, its financial margin remains razor-thin. County leaders are warning the board to stay the course and remain cautious about enrollment projections, which have historically been overly optimistic.
Board President Nick Caston says the district is committed to proactive monitoring to ensure this hard-won stability isn’t lost.
