Robbinsdale community to weigh in after school district finds unexpected budget gap

Administrators at Robbinsdale Area Schools are holding a town hall Wednesday night to discuss its budget, after an error left the district with a $20 million shortfall.

Administrators at the metro-area district say staff counted a fund twice during the budget process, making it look like the district had more money than it does. Now they need to make up the gap in its 2025-26 fiscal year budget and are considering budget reductions, building modifications or closures, and a potential future funding referendum.

“This is a pivotal moment for our district,” says Chief Financial Officer Kristen Hoheisel in an update on the district’s website. “While these financial realities are difficult, they also represent an opportunity to reimagine our approach to serving students. I believe we can turn these challenges into a springboard for transformative growth for the district.”

District leaders are inviting the public to ask questions and learn more at Wednesday's meeting at Cooper High School. It starts at 6:30 p.m.

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