The Anacortes School Board has approved a $42 million budget for the coming school year that reflects an investment in academic and social-emotional learning for students.
The final vote came Thursday night. More than 85 percent of the district’s budget also supports staff salaries and professional training.
“This budget reflects a significant investment in our students’ learning, as well as our staff retention, recruitment, and development,” said Superintendent Justin Irish. “We are committed to rigorous learning for all students, and will continue to provide a supportive environment after a year and a half of hybrid learning. Thanks to the community’s past support of our levies, we will also continue to invest in technology resources to allow for flexibility in teaching and learning.”
This year’s budget includes additional staffing to support students’ mental health needs and teacher specialists at our elementary schools to support different levels of academic intervention. Partnerships with Anacortes Rotary, Island Hospital, Island Hospital Foundation, Anacortes Schools Foundation, and others also help support these programs.
The district has been working on greater alignment with its Strategic Plan, annual goals, and budget priorities. The district also continues to proactively plan ahead and respond to the coronavirus pandemic.
“Anacortes has a strong commitment to the whole child,” said Bobbilyn Hogge, board president. “This budget reflects our community and district’s dedication to high academic standards, as well as a focus on mental health support. We know that our students, staff, and community have had a tough year. We are committed to supporting the needs of staff and students at all levels and in all areas to ensure a successful return to in-person learning.”