Pullman, ID: $1.1M for additional support for SPED

May 28, 2026, Lewiston ID Tribune: Pullman School Board expands general fund budget by $1.1 mil...

Pullman Public Schools has expanded this year’s general fund budget by approximately $1.1 million to support special education and Running Start programs.

The Pullman School Board of Directors approved the increase during Wednesday evening’s regular meeting following a public hearing.

The revision will extend the budget from around $44.6 million to $45.6 million, according to board documents.

Superintendent Dr. Bob Maxwell explained that the extra funding is needed for an influx of students receiving special education services and increased costs for Running Start.

Megan Itani, a teacher and past special education director for the school district, spoke in favor of investing in the program.

She told board members the school district received 40 to 50 new students this year, bringing the total students receiving special education services to 440. She added that the system has more of these students than ever before, and advocated for being proactive about amenities that support their learning.

Changes to the budget will be filed with the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction.