School Board to receive report on tight budget; consider giving money to employees who opt out of health benefits

At its next meeting the Monrovia Board of Education (agenda) will ...

~ Receive an un-audited financial report saying district spending exceeded revenue by $9.3 million in 2025-26, reducing the general fund balance from $30.7 million to $21.3 million. The report says another $2.2 million deficit is projected for 2026-27. Also, average daily attendance (which the state uses to determine how much money districts get) is expected to decline by about 114 students, or 2.6 percent. The district plans to cut overall general fund spending by 6 percent, including reductions of 4.1 percent in certificated (teachers, administrators, other professionals) salaries, 25.8 percent in books and supplies, 14 percent in services and 70 percent in capital spending. [AI used to analyze this report]. Details.

~ Consider approving an amendment to the Monrovia Teachers Association memo of understanding giving teachers who opt out of district health coverage (maybe they are covered by their spouses' insurance) $2,000 cash instead. Details. And non-teachers could get the same kind of deal, here. 

~ Consider recognizing Sept. 15 to October 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month. Details. 

- Brad Haugaard