May 26, 2026 3:40 a.m.
Roseburg Schools plans to make approximately $4.5 million in budget reductions for the upcoming school year with some layoffs of staff.
In a message sent to families of students on Friday, Superintendent Jared Cordon said each year the school board adopts a balanced budget that reflects a commitment to living within their means while protecting the programs and services that matter most to students.
Cordon said the district is navigating a number of financial challenges facing school systems across Oregon. Over time, student enrollment has declined, which reduces the amount of funding the district receives from Oregon’s State School Fund. Cordon said at the same time, rising costs related to employee retirement benefits, inflation, and reductions in some state and federal grants are placing additional financial pressure on the district.
Cordon said the largest part of the district’s budget is dedicated to the people who serve students each day, which means some staffing adjustments are necessary to maintain a balanced budget. Most of these changes are occurring through retirements and resignations. Cordon said approximately 19 employees, representing less than 3 percent of the district’s workforce, are being affected by layoffs.
Cordon said the district expects to maintain class sizes within or below their target ranges for most grade levels. Positions added in recent years to support student’s academic, social, emotional and behavioral wellbeing are being preserved, according to Cordon.
The message to families said that even after the adjustments, Roseburg Schools will still employ more staff and licensed educators per student today than it did a decade ago, despite serving nearly 700 fewer students.
Cordon said Roseburg Schools remain financially stables and these adjustments reflect proactive planning to ensure the district continues operating responsibly and sustainably for years to come.
The full message and additional budget information is available at: www.Roseburg.k12.or.us/district-news