The Ross Valley School District is facing big financial challenges after voters rejected Measure E, a parcel tax proposal that needed a two-thirds majority but only got 62.5% support. District trustees have now approved a preliminary budget with $700,000 in cuts over the next two years, affecting educational programs and staff jobs.
This setback really highlights the funding struggles for one of Marin County’s most resource-strapped districts. Ross Valley serves about 1,700 students across five schools in places like Fairfax and San Anselmo.
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Budget Cuts Impact Educational Programs Across Ross Valley
The failed tax measure will immediately impact the district’s $32 million budget. For the 2025-26 school year, several important programs are on the chopping block.
Guest support teachers, who help out in classrooms and offer specialized instruction, will be eliminated. At White Hill Middle School in Fairfax, art programs and site council sections will be cut back, which means fewer creative opportunities for students.
Several vacant aide positions will also stay unfilled, so existing staff will have to pick up the slack. That’s not an easy ask, especially when everyone’s already stretched thin.
Second Wave of Cuts Planned for 2026-27
The belt-tightening doesn’t stop there. The district plans a second round of cuts for the 2026-27 school year, and these will dig even deeper into core educational services.
Library specialists, who keep information resources running and support literacy programs, will have their hours or positions reduced. Kindergarten aides—vital for kids starting school—will also see their roles cut back.
English language development services will get trimmed too, which could hit students who need extra language support the hardest. That’s a tough pill to swallow for families counting on these programs.
Financial Outlook Remains “Positive” Despite Challenges
District officials still say the overall budget will stay technically “positive” through the 2027-28 school year. That just means Ross Valley can pay its bills and keep enough in reserves for now.
But Superintendent Tyler Graff hasn’t sugarcoated things. He’s warned about a looming $5 million “fiscal cliff” if voters don’t approve a new parcel tax before the current one expires in June 2028.
Root Causes of Ross Valley’s Financial Struggles
According to district leadership, Ross Valley’s money problems come from structural revenue issues, not mismanagement. Superintendent Graff points out that Ross Valley has the lowest revenue of any Marin County school district.
Why? The property tax base is modest compared to wealthier Marin towns like Mill Valley or Tiburon, and state subsidies are minimal. These factors keep funding tight for schools in places like San Anselmo and Sleepy Hollow.
Looking Forward: Hope for Future Funding
District officials aren’t giving up hope, even after the recent setback. They’re feeling cautiously optimistic about what the future might bring.
Measure E got 62.5% support. That wasn’t quite enough to pass, but it does show a lot of people in the community still back the schools.
Officials think they could get the necessary two-thirds majority next time, especially if they improve their messaging and reach out more in Fairfax, San Anselmo, and nearby areas. They’re eyeing the 2028 deadline and believe there’s still a real shot.
Families at the four elementary schools and White Hill Middle School in Ross Valley will have to adjust as these changes unfold. The district’s still working hard behind the scenes to find steadier funding for the long haul.
Here is the source article for this story: Ross Valley School District cuts $700K from budget after tax defeat
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