The Pasadena Unified School District’s financial situation is “strong for the immediate future,” PUSD Board of Education President Michelle Bailey said at the 2023 State of the Schools address.
The annual speech, given Thursday, May 17, at John Muir Early College Magnet High School, is required by the Pasadena City Charter and provides the public an update on the district’s finances, student achievement and goals for the future.
Since March 2019, PUSD has received a “Positive Certification” on each of its financial reports. The district has also continued to receive the highest possible rating for its annual outside audits of its financial statements and the facilities bond program since 2019.
Bailey said the district’s financial status this year was driven by state and federal COVID relief funding and increased cost-of-living adjustments, leading to nearly $70 million in reserves. However, years of declining enrollment could threaten to eat into those funds.
Measure J, which gives a small percentage of the city’s sales tax to the PUSD reserve fund, will help sustain signature programs like Dual Language Immersion, STEM, and the robust Visual and Performing Arts programs to the tune of $10 million this year.
Bailey pointed to the district’s academic success, as well, with Sierra Madre Elementary being named a California Distinguished School and Altadena Arts Magnet being named a National Magnet Model School.
“It’s not common for school districts to get a third grant, and it’s a testament to the quality of our collective efforts that the federal government has in PUSD,” she said. “Our high schools are also earning 6-year accreditation from WASC.”
The district also made strides in reducing Black student suspensions and expulsions, with fewer than 55 suspensions across eight schools hailed as a “significant decrease.” PUSD teachers were also given a 10% salary increase, the largest single increase in district history.
Looking forward to next year, the district is setting goals to create a transition plan for the loss of COVID relief funds, continue to increase salaries in order to retain and recruit qualified staff, and complete a Facilities Master Plan to move into the planning and construction phase for school improvement bond, Measure O.
Bailey also addressed the recent departure of high-level district employees, not including PUSD Superintendent Dr. Brian McDonald, who was a finalist for Columbus City School District’s superintendent position.
“As changes happen at the leadership level, I know that there is speculation and uncertainty. But I want to say this: PUSD is a school system that stays focused on the success and well-being of our students,” Bailey said. “Our previous and current leadership have gotten us to this point. Together, we must lead through any change in unity, steadiness, and a clear vision to serve our students.”
