Update on SFUSD Budget Development

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Dear SFUSD Community,

Every year, schools across the District work together to create SFUSD’s budget for the next school year. This process brings together families, staff, school leaders, and community partners. Together, we plan how to use our resources to support student learning.

As your Superintendent, I am committed to creating a budget that reflects our community’s values. Our goal is to focus our resources where they matter most to help students succeed. At the same time, we are making progress to stabilize the District.

Based on feedback we received from the community this fall, we are proposing school staffing based on how many students we expect will enroll next year and what they need to be successful. We must allocate these resources in a responsible way, and have made changes based on these priorities:

  • Provide strong and engaging academic classroom instruction

  • Attract and keep excellent teachers and staff

  • Make sure all SFUSD schools are safe places to learn

  • Support the whole child, including students’ social and emotional needs

These priorities guide our budget decisions and align with SFUSD’s Vision, Values, Goals, and Guardrails. Below is more information about the next steps.

Preliminary School Budget Allocations

Today, we shared preliminary budget allocations for schools with all principals. These allocations are based on expected student enrollment and the specific needs of students at each school. SFUSD budget teams will work closely with principals to implement school staffing, and principals have received detailed budget instructions. My executive team and I will be working with principals before the budget process ends in February to resource our schools effectively.

Budget Factors Still Changing

Although our budget outlook has improved, some factors could still affect the final budget. These include any changes to public education funding in the Governor’s upcoming state budget and possible salary increases from labor negotiations. Last month, I joined other superintendents from large California school districts to ask the state for more funding. I will continue to share updates as we work toward agreements with our labor partners.

School Planning Summit and School Site Council Meetings

On Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026, the School Site Summit will begin this year’s school budget planning process. In the coming weeks, School Site Councils (SSCs) at every school will meet to review the preliminary budgets and take part in planning. This process gives families and staff a chance to share input that helps shape school programs and student supports. I look forward to visiting schools and listening to SSC members across the District.

Together, we will continue to build a strong, stable future for SFUSD centered on serving each and every student. Thank you for your continued partnership.

 

Sincerely,

Maria Su
Superintendent, SFUSD

School Site Summit