Schools forecast smaller enrollment, budget for fall

Fifteen years ago, 650 students attended grades K-12 at La Conner Schools.

But this fall only 530 are projected, an enrollment drop that will have a direct impact on the school district’s 2022-23 budget.

School officials are forecasting a $13 million budget next year, down from $14.5 million in 2021-22, in response to anticipated reduced state funding and federal impact aid support linked to student enrollment.

The district has already eliminated two in-person teaching positions.

The board has tasked business manager Brian Gianello during the panel’s hybrid meeting June 26 to develop a plan as...