Current Status
District enrollment saw a minor increase but the long-term trend remains downward. To address a kindergarten enrollment bubble at Small Elementary, the administration has added a portable classroom.
Overview
- On August 17, 2026, the administration added a portable classroom at Small Elementary to manage high kindergarten enrollment, noting a slight overall district increase against a long-term downward trend.
- Superintendent Matheney highlighted a significant 7% decline in district enrollment and its potential financial impact on September 9, 2024.
- On May 13, 2024, the Superintendent warned that a steady decline in student enrollment would negatively affect future state subsidies and create budget challenges.
Perspectives
Administration
- Reported a slight year-over-year enrollment increase of 20 students, though the long-term trend points downward.
- Added a new classroom in a portable building at Small Elementary to address high kindergarten enrollment.
- Previously warned of significant financial impacts and budget challenges due to declining enrollment.
Staff
- A teacher raised safety and security concerns regarding the use of portables compared to the main building's secure vestibules.
Citizens
- A student and his mother called for greater peer respect, kindness, and mental health support in schools.
Meeting History
August 17, 2026
August 17, 2026 — School Board Meeting — SPSD
Enrollment and Class Size Adjustments
Superintendent Angela Atkinson Duina reported a slight year-over-year enrollment increase of 20 students, though the long-term trend points downward. To address high kindergarten enrollment at Small Elementary School, the administration decided to add a new classroom, which will necessitate utilizing a portable building currently used for MTSS services.
Public Concerns on Safety and Peer Respect
During public comment, a teacher raised safety and security concerns regarding the use of portables at Small Elementary School compared to the main building's secure vestibules. Additionally, a middle school student and his mother delivered emotional remarks calling for greater peer respect, kindness, and mental health support in schools.
September 9, 2024
September 9, 2024 — School Board Meeting — SPSD
Superintendent's Priorities and Enrollment Update
Superintendent Matheney presented the 2024-25 Pillars & Priorities, focusing on instructional excellence, DEIB, future planning, and operational effectiveness. He highlighted a significant 7% decline in district enrollment and its potential financial impact, while also setting goals to reduce chronic absenteeism and increase student engagement.
May 13, 2024
May 13, 2024 — School Board Meeting — SPSD
Enrollment and Budget Forecast
Superintendent Matheney reported a steady decline in student enrollment, warning that it will impact future state subsidies. He emphasized that the upcoming FY26 budget cycle will present significant financial challenges for the district.