The following information was shared with the Kent School District community on October 17, 2025.
We’re sharing this update with you because families and community members are the foundation of Kent School District (KSD), and your partnership is necessary as we face these financial challenges together. This resource provides our families and community with clear information about Kent School District’s current financial situation.
We know this news is difficult, but we’ll face it together, and we are working diligently to make thoughtful, student-centered decisions that preserve the quality of education and support systems provided by our staff. One of Kent School District’s greatest strengths is the powerful partnership we share with our families and community. Your support, care, and collaboration are what make us strong. Together, as OneKSD, we will continue to uplift our students and each other through these challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is KSD facing financial challenges?
Like many districts across Washington State, KSD is experiencing financial pressures due to declining enrollment and significant reductions in federal funding. Our 2025–26 budget was developed with the assumption that enrollment and federal funding would remain stable. Unfortunately, neither of these assumptions held true.
How large is the current funding gap?
The projected funding gap for the 2025-26 school year has grown from $14.9 million to $35.3 million, an increase of $20.4 million. It is important to note that these figures represent our current understanding and may change.
What factors have contributed to the increased shortfall?
The $20.4 million increase in the funding gap is due to:
$8.2 million – Decline in K–12 enrollment of 792 students
$6.2 million – Decline in Inclusive Education enrollment of 413 students
$6.0 million – Reductions in federal funding (Title I, II, and III programs)
How will the district address the 2025-26 funding gap?
In an effort to minimize the impact to 2025-26, $12.4 million of the shortfall will be covered by the district’s unassigned fund balance. Additionally, to maintain the five (5) percent unassigned fund balance required by Board Policy 6022, approximately $8 million in budget reductions will still be necessary.
I am a KSD employee. Is my job on the line for the 2025-2026 school year?
We understand this is one of the most pressing questions for staff. At this time, there are no current plans for any existing employees to lose their jobs this school year. We are carefully monitoring state and federal funding updates, which will help inform future budget decisions. Our priority is to maintain stability for employees while upholding our commitment to students, safety, and fiscal responsibility.
What are the financial projections for the 2026-27 school year and beyond?
The district anticipates a similar funding gap in 2026-27, in addition to previously communicated shortfalls. Projected contributing factors include:
$7.5 million – Previously communicated shortfall (26–27 through 28–29 = $22.5M total)
$8.2 million – Continued K–12 enrollment decline
$6.2 million – Continued Inclusive Education enrollment decline
$6.0 million – Ongoing federal funding reductions
To remain fiscally solvent and maintain the five (5) percent unassigned fund balance, budget reductions of approximately $30 million will be necessary for 2026–27. We will be looking at all areas of the school district for efficiencies, revenue enhancements, and expenditure reductions.
Why are other school districts also facing similar challenges?
Across Washington State and the nation, school districts are grappling with rising costs, declining enrollment, and reduced funding. Key factors include:
Inflation and cost-of-living increases.
Declining birth rates leading to lower student enrollment.
A reduction in the state’s share of funding for K-12 education—from over 50% in 2019-21 to 43.2% in the 2025-27 state budget.
How will these financial challenges affect students and families?
We are committed to minimizing the impact on students and families. While budget reductions are necessary, decisions will be made with a focus on preserving educational quality, safety, and support services.
How will these financial challenges affect employees?
We recognize these challenges impact people, not just budgets. The district’s priority is stability for employees while ensuring student learning, safety, and fiscal responsibility remain central.
To achieve this:
All current vacancies are being carefully reviewed before hiring.
Hiring will proceed only where necessary and aligned with collective bargaining agreements.
For the 2025-2026 funding gap, $12.4 million of the shortfall will be covered by the district’s unassigned fund balance.
What is the district’s approach to navigating these challenges?
Our leadership team is committed to acting with transparency, empathy, and care. We are:
Sharing accurate, timely information with staff and the community.
Making student-centered decisions that preserve educational quality.
Listening to feedback from schools, departments, and employee groups.
What remains constant despite these financial challenges?
Our mission and values remain unchanged. KSD continues to:
Prepare all students for their futures.
Live our core values of equity, excellence, and community.
Continue supporting our families, staff, and students through open communication and collaboration.
How will the district continue communicating these financial challenges?
We will provide regular updates through school board meetings and district communications such as our website and e-Newsletters. We are committed to listening actively and communicating openly as we work through these challenges—together with courage and compassion.