|
To: Superintendents, Principals, Tribes, IT Directors, Business Managers, Special Education Directors, Charter School Leaders, Education Partners, K-12 PIOs
From: Dr. Charlene Williams, Director, Oregon Department of Education
Date: November 10, 2025
Re: Statewide Budget Planning
Over the past several weeks, the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) has engaged in required statewide budget planning. On October 1, the Legislative Fiscal Office asked all state agencies to develop 2.5% and 5% reduction options for the legislature to consider. This is part of information gathering efforts the legislature needs to do in advance of the 2026 legislative session, and it is not uncommon for agencies to be asked to complete this type of exercise. ODE submitted budget options to the Legislative Fiscal Office on November 3.
ODE has approached this work with care and transparency, focusing on fiscal responsibility and the continued support of programs that most directly serve Oregon’s learners. Our goal is to ensure that any decision the legislature makes takes into account the stability for students and educators across the state that fosters future student success.
Context and Purpose
It is important to note that this is a required process designed to shape financial options for the Legislature to consider during the 2026 session; no cuts are being made at this time. The Legislature will ultimately decide if and how reductions are made.
Access to Information and Next Steps
Budget reduction documentation has now been posted publicly on the Oregon Legislative Information System (OLIS). In addition, program information and related materials are available on the ODE website for your review.
Ongoing Coordination and Support
In the coming days, we will be communicating directly with many of our partners to share information and discuss how this might impact districts, ESDs and programs. If you have questions about what this may mean for your organization or would like to learn more about the legislative budgeting process, please contact your grant coordinator to arrange a time to meet. We deeply appreciate your patience and partnership as we navigate this evolving budget environment.
|
