Budget Reduction Process
Facing a $3 million shortfall, Balsz School District is engaging the community in a transparent and inclusive process to address its budget challenges.
Working together to navigate enrollment changes while keeping our students first
A message from Board Vice President Sidra Zaidi
A message from Board Member, Jacob George
Dear Balsz families and community members,
Due to a significant and ongoing decline in enrollment over the past five years, our district is facing a $3 million budget reduction for the 2025–2026 school year. We are committed to a process that is transparent, equitable and guided by input from our community.
This page outlines the steps we’re taking, how you can get involved and where to find the latest updates.
— Dr. George Barnes, Superintendent
Why is This Happening?
Arizona’s public-school funding is based on student enrollment. Over the past five years, Balsz has seen a 25% decrease in student enrollment. This decline translates into less funding for classrooms, staff and services.
At the same time, operational costs have increased, and state funding has not kept pace. To continue delivering high-quality learning experiences, we must make difficult decisions to realign resources with our current enrollment levels.
Our Commitment
We are dedicated to a budget process that is:
Transparent — We will clearly share data, proposals and decisions.
Inclusive — We will gather input from staff, families and the community.
Student-centered — We will prioritize educational quality and equity.
Timely — We will communicate key dates and decisions as they unfold.
What’s the Process?
- 1. Establish Purpose and Guiding Parameters (September 2024)
- 2. Initial Data Gathering and Analysis (September 2025)
- 3. Impact Assessment (October 2025)
- 4. Develop Budget Reduction Scenarios (October 2025 – January 2026)
- 5. Stakeholder Engagement (October 2025 – January 2026)
- 6. Decision-Making Process (January and February 2026)
1. Establish Purpose and Guiding Parameters (September 2024)
2. Initial Data Gathering and Analysis (September 2025)
3. Impact Assessment (October 2025)
4. Develop Budget Reduction Scenarios (October 2025 – January 2026)
5. Stakeholder Engagement (October 2025 – January 2026)
6. Decision-Making Process (January and February 2026)
How to Get Involved
We need your input to make the best decisions for our students and schools.
Attend a public meeting
Check our district calendar for upcoming forums.
Ask a question or share input
Email us at communications@balsz.org
2026 Budget Reduction Survey Questions
English
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Spanish
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Somali
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Meeting Materials and Videos
📋 Board Meetings & Presentations
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions
Why is enrollment declining?
Like many districts across the country, Balsz is experiencing a population shift due to factors such as housing costs, declining birth rates and family mobility.
Will schools be closed?
No decisions have been made. All options are being studied, but no schools have been identified for closure at this time.
When will decisions be made?
The Governing Board will consider proposals in spring 2025. Any changes would take effect in the 2025–2026 school year.
More questions? Read the full FAQ above!
Stay informed
We will update this page regularly as new information becomes available. You can also follow us on Facebook for future updates as they become available.