Walla Walla School District refines budget amid projected enrollment drop
By Dan Thesman on Tuesday, June 2nd, 2026 in Columbia Basin News Columbia Basin Top Stories
WALLA WALLA — Walla Walla Public Schools officials are refining the district’s proposed 2026–2027 general fund budget in response to projected student enrollment declines.
Superintendent Ben Gauyan, Assistant Superintendent Chris Gardea, and Fiscal Services Director Janette Jeffris outlined the planning process in a recent video update, which can be viewed in full at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHRPOKgKsNU.
Enrollment is projected to drop by 115 full-time equivalent students next year, with annual decreases of at least 100 students expected over the next several years.
The district is utilizing a multi-year financial strategy focused on gradual staffing adjustments and managed expenditures to maintain stability while preserving educational programs. Officials confirmed the district continues to meet the school board’s requirement of maintaining an 8 to 10 percent fund balance reserve.
The school board will consider the final budget in July.
