Budget Renewal Initiative

The Redwood City School District (RCSD) Budget Renewal Initiative is designed to guide the district and its community through the necessary budget reductions to be implemented for the 2025-26 school year. This initiative emphasizes transparency, community engagement, and support to ensure the district’s financial stability while maintaining the quality of education RCSD provides to each and every student.

Transparency, Community Engagement, and Support

Transparency:
Ensure stakeholders are well-informed about the budget process, rationale, and progress.

Community Engagement:
Facilitate active participation from families and staff.

Support:
Provide factual data, resources, and support from credible sources to help stakeholders understand the financial context and implications.

Why do we need to do this?

The need for budget adjustments arises from the expiration of one-time funds provided by federal and state grants, which have supported all public schools over the past few years due to the COVID-19 lockdown. A second set of funds will conclude in 2026, requiring proactive measures to align RCSD’s budget with the district’s long-term financial realities.

To achieve this, Superintendent Dr. John Baker is collaborating with a dedicated committee of parents, district staff, and two Trustees. This committee plays a crucial role in evaluating potential budget adjustments and ensuring diverse perspectives are considered.

How will I know what's going on?

This page on the RCSD website will serve as the primary hub for updates, resources, and community feedback throughout this process, culminating in a comprehensive proposal presented to the Board of Trustees for final approval.