Bellingham Public Schools outlines change due to declining enrollment

My Bellingham Now previously reported that the district considered consolidating some elementary schools in an effort to save money, but those changes likely won't occur within the next academic year.

My Bellingham NowDave Walker

BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – The superintendent of Bellingham Public Schools has outlined new changes in light of declining enrollment.

In a newsletter to families, Dr. Greg Baker says that proactive measures were made ahead of this year’s legislative session to prepare for anticipated funding shortfalls at the state level. That included an operations levy that was passed by voters in November.

But Dr. Baker says the levy was capped and state legislators voted to pull back on funding certain programs, like mental health support and early learning.

Moving into the next academic year, that translates to adjusted assignments for some counseling and library roles.

The fifth grade “mountain school” trip is being put on pause, and some extracurriculars could also go on hiatus until funding is restored.

My Bellingham Now previously reported that the district considered consolidating some elementary schools in an effort to save money, but those changes likely won’t occur within the next academic year.