2026 Budget Cuts Proposal

Summary

Outlined in the initial 2026 budget reduction presentation, SLCUSD proposed eliminating the entire music and choir programs' non-personnel operating budget ($150k) across all school sites. Furthering the challenges, these programs were placed in the "second tier to return," meaning that $3.1M would have to be secured in the budget deficit before any funding would be potentially reinstated. 

In working with the Superintendent's Office to highlight the concerns, they have committed to reinstate $50k, or 33% of the normal operating budget next year. While we are appreciative of this progress, we still remain disheartened to see 67% of the budget be at jeopardy for an already underfunded program.

The next step in the process is a vote from the School Board at their December 16th meeting on these reductions. 

Impact

The district-provided operating budget currently serves 800 students at four schools sites (San Luis Obispo High School, Laguna Middle School, Morro Bay High School, and Los Osos Middle School). Last year, SLOIMBA funded more than double the amount of the district-provided budget to account for the underfunding challenges that these programs already faced for SLOHS & LAMS. The organization cannot remain financially solvent if faced with even more severe financial burdens. MBHS & LOMS are supported by another non-profit booster program, which already faces significant financial strain before those proposed cuts are approved.  

We also want to emphasize that music and vocal arts are not just a class; it is an entire community. These programs represent inclusive spaces for all students, regardless of their personal backgrounds. 

On many campuses, the music program is the largest single-entity space for students to come together to learn, create, collaborate, and develop essential skills such as leadership, discipline, and confidence. We have been told by students and alumni that music saved their life and we do not take that lightly. 

Taking Action Yourself 

There are a variety of ways to get involved in saving music in the schools. SLOIMBA respects that there are different viewpoints on these matters and encourages people to find an advocacy pathway that best aligns with your values. We strongly request that all communications written to advocate for arts funding are worded with respect and integrity. 

Pathways:

• PG&E Funding for SLCUSD with the extended operations of Diablo

  • Letters written to the PG&E executives; more info HERE

• State-provided funding for TK

  • Letter written to legislators to advocate for funding of this additional grade level; more info HERE

• SLCUSD School Board appeals to budget reduction proposals

  • Letters written to the SLCUSD Board Members in advance of the December 16th vote; contact info HERE

  • Attending the Board Meeting on December 16th at the District Office at 6PM

    • 1500 Lizzie St, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 in room J2 

    • Reach out to president@slotigerband.org if you need further information

See us in action advocating for our students

• KSBY 12/3/25 interview: Link