The Gladstone School District is at a crossroads. Our school board has been regularly discussing our district’s long-term financial health in light of Public Employees Retirement Fund (PERS) pressures expected by July 2027.
If significant steps aren’t taken by early 2027, Gladstone will face a significant financial shortfall in balancing our school district’s budget, as required by state law each June. Specifically, Public Employees Retirement Fund rate adjustments expected in July of 2027, similar in scale to those experienced in July of 2025, will leave a one-time financial shortfall of approximately $1.5 million.
To avoid an anticipated financial shortfall in the first half of 2027, Gladstone School District staff have recommended that the school board take two significant steps in the coming months:
Sell surplus property. Specifically, an unused portion of the Kraxberger Middle School property and/or property near John Wetten Elementary School
Pass a facilities bond to cover roofing, HVAC replacement, and other critical facilities needs of our four schools, which would be matched by $10.2 million from the state
If one or both of these steps aren’t taken by early 2027, the Gladstone School District would have to explore even more dramatic options to balance our budget. Neither school closure nor consolidation with a neighboring school district is recommended at this time.
Read other articles on this website for more information about how the Gladstone School District is preparing steps in the next year and a half to preserve our school district’s independence. Superintendent Jeremiah Patterson and the Gladstone School Board will host a district roadmap community conversation from 6-7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 19 at Gladstone High School, where you’re encouraged to ask questions, offer feedback and make your voice heard.
Please submit any questions you may have about the financial roadmap through this Google form.