Sept 13, 2024, Pasadena Now: Pasadena Unified Faced With Soaring Special Education Costs
District faces $88 million price tag as officials call for increased state and federal funding
The Pasadena Unified School District is confronting a steep rise in special education costs, with expenditures reaching $87.9 million for the 2023-2024 school year. This is a striking increase from the $78.7 million initially budgeted.
The surge in costs has prompted District officials to point to the need for greater financial support from state and federal sources.
The dramatic increase in special ed expenses comes as the District faces broader financial challenges.
Pasadena Unified reported an operating deficit of $7.4 million in its unrestricted general fund for the 2023-2024 unaudited actuals, according to Saman Bravo-Karimi, the District’s financial officer. . . .
The rising special education costs are attributed to several factors, including the need to provide mandated services and difficulties in bringing services in-house.
District officials are exploring ways to address the financial strain, including potential cost-saving measures and advocacy for increased funding.
The Board is set to review a fiscal stabilization plan with the first interim report.
The financial challenges extend beyond special education. The District faces declining enrollment and the expiration of one-time COVID-19 relief funds, further complicating its fiscal outlook. . . .
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