The Salem-Keizer School Board is asking Oregon lawmakers to reconsider how public education is funded as the district faces declining enrollment and difficult budget decisions.
Board members unanimously approved the district’s legislative priorities for the 2027 Oregon legislative session during their November 10 meeting.
One of the biggest requests is the creation of a statewide School Funding Modernization Commission to examine how Oregon distributes money to public schools. District officials say the current funding formula does not adequately account for student poverty, special education expenses and other financial pressures.
The district is also asking lawmakers to fully fund the state’s Current Service Level, which represents the amount needed to maintain existing school programs and services.
Salem-Keizer’s enrollment has dropped to approximately 36,097 students, compared with 37,363 the previous year.
Meanwhile, possible elementary school closures remain a major concern for parents and community members. The school board has scheduled a special meeting for November 17 to discuss the issue ahead of a possible December decision.
