Mesa Public Schools is facing significant financial challenges as it prepares for the 2025-26 school year. The district has announced plans to cut jobs and adjust staffing levels in response to a projected $18 million budget deficit and a decline of 1,800 students, a trend that mirrors broader demographic shifts across Arizona.
Enrollment Decline and Financial Strain
Mesa Public Schools is grappling with a decline in enrollment, with 1,500 fewer students in the 2024-2025 school year and another 1,800 students expected to leave in the upcoming year. The situation is exacerbated by a statewide 18% drop in birth rates over the last decade, and a 28% decline in the City of Mesa’s birth rate specifically. As a result, the district is experiencing a reduction in funding, which directly impacts its ability to maintain current staffing levels. According to a statement issued by Mesa Public Schools, “the number of graduating seniors exceeds incoming kindergarteners by 1,100, signaling a continuing trend of population shifts.”
Budget Deficit and Rising Costs
The district is projecting a $16.7 million shortfall, primarily driven by the decrease in student enrollment. Additional factors contributing to the deficit include increased utility costs, rising health insurance premiums, and the expiration of Proposition 123 funding in July 2025. Mesa Public Schools is also grappling with a new Title I funding model, which reduces resources for schools that serve fewer students in need of economic assistance.
Job Cuts and Operational Changes
In response to the budget crisis, Mesa Public Schools will eliminate positions, affecting both certified and classified staff. Nearly 90% of the district’s budget goes toward employee compensation, making staffing cuts a necessary but difficult decision. “Our goal is to preserve as many positions as possible while continuing to deliver high-quality education to our students,” the district said in its statement.
To maximize efficiency, Mesa Public Schools will also revise its staffing models, centralizing certain roles and adjusting allocations for counseling and instructional coaching. Despite these challenges, the district remains committed to ensuring that students receive the support they need to succeed.
The district’s strategic adjustments aim to stabilize the budget while maintaining its educational mission. As the situation evolves, Mesa Public Schools will continue to work closely with its staff and community to navigate these difficult financial times.
