Presentation on District Budget and Costs

Superintendent Dr. Kristine Michael provided a comprehensive presentation outlining district budget challenges, including:

• MSOCs (Materials, Supplies, and Operating Costs)
• Other essential district costs not funded by the state
• A review of past cuts implemented during the prior year

Dr. Michael walked through budget line items, cost centers, and expenditure categories. She also reviewed feedback gathered from various community groups.

Superintendent’s Budget Priorities

Dr. Michael highlighted three guiding priorities for budget decisions:

1. Student Achievement
2. Health and Safety
3. Responsible Use of District Resources

She explained that she had reviewed all district staff positions and is confident that she can reorganize district office responsibilities and reduce staffing in certain areas. These changes would allow the district to request a lower levy amount in April.

Formation of a Budget Advisory Committee

Dr. Michael announced that she will be establishing a District Budget Advisory Committee.

• The committee’s purpose will be to support and provide recommendations to the Superintendent.
• Additional details, including membership information and instructions on how to join, will be shared with the public soon.

Preliminary Levy Budget Overview

Dr. Michael shared a preliminary breakdown of how the proposed $4.5 million levy request would be allocated. She emphasized that additional detail will be added before presenting the information publicly.

Key areas discussed included:

• Addressing building and security needs
• Restoring or expanding sports and student activities
• Updating curriculum materials that have been deferred for several years

Dr. Michael noted that these improvements depend on levy funding to move forward.

The next school board meeting will be held on February 23, 2026 at 6:30pm at the NMSD Administration Office Boardroom.

 ____________________________________ 
Nicole Gonzalez Timmons, Board of Directors President

 ___________________________________ 
Dr. Kristine Michael, Secretary to the Board 

Minutes approved at meeting on __________________