Oakland Unified School District halves $100 million budget deficit

"Initial measures credited with slashing the looming budget gap include a three-week freeze on non-essential spending. The district did not immediately provide how much money the freeze saved. Future cost-saving moves could include re-evaluating school-site spending, and reducing staffing, including through retirements, not filling open jobs and eliminating duplicate positions. The district may explore property tax measures and private grants to generate additional revenue, according to a presentation by a private firm hired by the district at a special meeting on Tuesday, which outlined initial cuts."

""We must still make significant changes to our personnel and programs in the central office and in schools, and to how the district conducts the business of educating children," Superintendent Denise Gail Saddler said. "But I am pleased with the progress when looking at the overall budget as compared to just one month ago. ... My primary goal is to ensure the district remains on solid financial footing and away from falling into receivership again.""

Oakland Unified faces a projected $100 million budget deficit that could be halved to about $50 million with initial measures. A three-week freeze on non-essential spending and other initial cuts were credited with narrowing the gap, though the district did not immediately provide savings totals. Future cost-saving options include re-evaluating school-site spending and reducing staffing through retirements, leaving vacancies unfilled, and eliminating duplicate roles. The district may pursue property-tax measures and private grants to increase revenue. Superintendent Denise Gail Saddler warned that significant personnel and program changes, including layoffs, remain necessary. Board member Mike Hutchinson said no plan currently exists and requested supporting numbers; a finalized proposal will be presented next week and voted on by mid-February.

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