Posted: March 26, 2025
Camas School District is confronting a complex financial landscape that will reshape its operations for the 2025-2026 school year and into the future. Facing a projected budget shortfall of $13-16 million, the district must make strategic reductions while maintaining its commitment to educational excellence.
“We’ve explored every possible alternative to keep cuts furthest away from the classroom,” said School Board President Tracey Malone. “These reductions are not a choice, but a necessity for our district’s long-term sustainability.”
The financial challenges stem from a perfect storm of economic pressures. Declining enrollment and significant state funding gaps have chipped away at the district’s fund balance, while the expiration of COVID-19 relief funds has eliminated a critical financial buffer. At the same time, increasing operational and staffing costs have further strained the budget.
Since 2020, the district has accumulated nearly $19.7 million in state funding gaps across critical areas, including special education, substitute teacher support, and transportation. These persistent underfunding challenges have accelerated the need for comprehensive budget realignment.
The school board’s recent unanimous resolution will result in significant staffing adjustments. Approximately 10% of certificated teaching staff, 13% of support staff, and 29% of central administrative positions will be reduced. This carefully considered approach aims to minimize student impact while addressing difficult fiscal realities.
“These budget reductions are incredibly difficult because they impact people—our colleagues, friends, and community members who have dedicated themselves to supporting students. While we’ve had to make tough decisions, we remain committed to ensuring that no graduation pathways are eliminated. Every student deserves the opportunity to explore their interests and prepare for their future, and we will continue to prioritize that even in the face of financial challenges.”
The district’s reduction strategy follows carefully developed guiding principles. Protecting student learning, maintaining educational equity, and ensuring operational efficiency stand at the forefront of decision-making. The process started in early February with initial administrative layoffs and teacher and support staff notices starting the week of April 14.
The district is not just making cuts but also actively advocating for systemic change. Superintendent John Anzalone and board members are engaging state legislators, pushing for improved K-12 funding models, particularly in special education, transportation, and operating costs.
The human impact of these decisions remains at the center of the district’s approach. Each reduction is viewed not just as a financial adjustment but as a carefully considered decision affecting real educators, staff, and students.
Looking forward, the district remains committed to transparency. Community forums, proactive communications with staff and the community, and ongoing engagement will endeavor to help stakeholders understand and navigate these challenging changes.
“While our path forward requires very difficult decisions,” said Anzalone, “our unwavering focus remains on providing the highest quality education possible for our students.”
