News Summary
The Coronado Unified School District is experiencing a budget crisis after a significant drop in student enrollment, leading to a funding shortfall of approximately $1.2 million. With total current enrollment at 2,678 students, the district has approved a $3.4 million loan to stabilize finances. However, staff reductions are anticipated due to ongoing declines. The district aims to improve student engagement and safety while navigating financial challenges. The community is invited to discuss these issues at the upcoming school board meeting.
Coronado, California – The Coronado Unified School District is grappling with a budget crisis following a significant drop in student enrollment. The district reported a decrease of 100 students compared to the previous year, bringing the total enrollment for the current academic year to 2,678 students. This figure falls short of the budgeted number of 2,750 and is down from last year’s total of 2,778 students.
This 4% decline in enrollment equates to approximately $1.2 million less in funding for the district. Deputy District Superintendent Donnie Salamanca characterized the funding shortfall as a “significant hit” to the district’s overall budget as it struggles to meet financial obligations.
To stabilize its finances, the school board recently approved a $3.4 million loan. This decision reflects the urgent need for financial resources, as the district anticipates requiring about $1.6 million in budget solutions to achieve basic solvency requirements established by the San Diego County Office of Education. Without the loan, there would have been a serious risk of staff layoffs and program cuts, according to Salamanca.
Impact on Staffing and Programs
Despite the infusion of cash from the loan, the district still expects to make reductions in staff due to declining enrollment. Following recent resignations, the district has chosen to redistribute administrative duties rather than rehiring individuals, streamlining management across seven departments. In light of this reorganization, Maria Simon, the district’s public information officer, will transition into a full-time role with an annual salary of $112,504, taking on new responsibilities. This salary move has raised concerns from the Association of Coronado Teachers, especially since it exceeds the earnings of many teachers in the district.
Future Financial Outlook
Looking ahead, there is some optimism for the district’s financial recovery. Officials predict that Coronado Unified could achieve Basic Aid status by the 2027-2028 school year, which could potentially increase its annual revenue by $8 to $10 million. However, the current financial realities still necessitate immediate action to address the current deficit.
School Environment and Safety Improvements
Amid the budget challenges, the district has reported improvements in class sizes. For instance, Village Elementary now boasts a student-to-teacher ratio of 24 to 1. While smaller class sizes may enhance the learning environment, they do not directly remedy the funding issues faced by the district.
Additionally, the Coronado Unified School District is taking steps to bolster school safety by implementing recommendations from a recent safety audit. Measures include distributing two-way radios and making necessary repairs to an unsecured gate at Cutler Field. This focus on safety comes as the district aims to foster a secure learning environment for its students.
Community Engagement
The incoming Associated Student Body President, Haissam Kouli, has reported that successful activities are being organized for freshmen to help them connect and integrate into the school community. These efforts are part of the district’s broader initiative to enhance student engagement and well-being during a challenging time.
As the Coronado Unified School District navigates its budget crisis and works on its future financial health, it invites community members to stay informed. The next school board meeting is scheduled for September 11 at 4 PM, to be held at the District Offices, providing an opportunity for public involvement and discussion on these pressing issues.
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Additional Resources
- El Paso Times: Coronado High School Football Countdown
- Coronado News: CUSD Changes School Year Calendar
- NBC San Diego: Coronado Unified Sewage Crisis Lawsuit
- Wikipedia: Coronado, California
- Patch: Top 20 High Schools in San Diego County
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
