2026 Financial Update
2026 Financial Update
Borg Report February 11, 2026
I am pleased to report that Westonka Public Schools remains in a stable financial position, thanks to a combination of factors, most notably our community's generous support and the careful fiscal management of our district and school board.
In 2019, voters approved a ballot question that brought Westonka’s operating levy authority closer to that of our eastern neighbors. The levy increase has had a significant impact on our ability to maintain essential services, preserve high-quality programs, and support the success of all students, while also helping us weather unexpected challenges.
Additionally, the district’s annual practice of challenging the budget has contributed to our overall financial stability. While Westonka is not immune to financial pressures such as inflation, unfunded mandates, and changes in state and federal funding, our strong position allows us to be more strategic and proactive in managing our resources.
I am also pleased to share that we remain in a favorable position to deliver on all communicated projects from the 2023 bond referendum. A second successful bond sale in January has positioned us well to complete the high school redesign, as well as the Hilltop and Shirley Hills maintenance projects and learning center improvements.
Westonka continues to hold a very strong Aa2 bond rating. Only six of the 182 Minnesota districts rated by Moody’s hold a higher rating. Additionally, even with the passage of the bond, Westonka residents can take pride in the fact that they have the lowest total school property taxes in all of Hennepin County.
School Board Approves Revised Budget
For over 15 years, Westonka’s administration and school board have been dedicated to continuously reviewing our budget to ensure we are using resources efficiently. Our goal is to identify any areas where we can make thoughtful reductions or adjustments that preserve the quality of education our students receive.
At its Monday, Feb. 9, meeting, the Westonka School Board approved the revised 2025-26 budget and reviewed a projection for the following year. The board approved a revised 2025-26 general operating budget of $44,921,732 in revenues and $44,515,523 in expenditures, resulting in a net increase of $406,209 to the unassigned fund balance.
The board also reviewed a targeted adjustment of $200,000 to the 2026-27 budget, aimed at protecting the district’s strong financial position. Over the coming months, the district administration will conduct a review of operational expenses.
While stable to modest enrollment growth supports a healthy budget, the district remains committed to maintaining small class sizes. To that end, we have capped open enrollment in some grade levels in order to protect instructional quality and supportive learning environments.
We welcome ideas from staff and parents on how the district can be more efficient in how it operates. If you are aware of areas where you feel there could be cost savings or revenue-generating opportunities, please reach out to me.
As we look toward future budgets, we are closely monitoring news from the Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education, as its work could impact future special education aid. The commission is expected to present its plan in October 2026, which will recommend changes to how special education services are delivered and funded statewide. These types of unknowns are one reason our district maintains a fund balance, allowing us to respond to unexpected expenditures if they arise.
Bond Construction Update
Spring/Summer 2026 Construction: We are gearing up for a busy construction season that will require a tremendous amount of teamwork, flexibility and patience. We are continually grateful for our community’s support as we work to elevate the experience for all Westonka students.
High school construction will continue throughout 2026 and 2027. Construction at Hilltop and Shirley Hills primary schools, which includes deferred maintenance and learning space enhancements, is scheduled to begin in June and be completed prior to the start of the 2026-27 school year.
What’s ahead?
- Spring 2026 - The WHS gym will close to the public over Spring Break in March and is expected to reopen mid-August. On the high school campus, work on the track and interior field, as well as the fields south of the Westonka Activity Center, is expected to begin in April, as temperatures allow.
- May 2026 - The high school main office will be relocated to the north side of the building. The north WHS entrance is expected to reopen for students and visitors in May, at which time the courtyard entrance will close for construction.
- Summer 2026 - The majority of youth summer programming will take place at Westonka Middle School while the high school, Shirley Hills, and Hilltop undergo significant construction. In addition to work inside the high school building, the WHS parking lots will be reconstructed during the summer months.
- Fall 2026 - Construction will continue in the Little Theater, the existing courtyard area, the athletic concourse, and the multi-use fields south of the high school and stadium.
Find the most up-to-date construction updates on our website, www.westonka.k12.mn.us/
I am continually grateful for the community’s support and partnership. If you have any questions or thoughts about district finances or other topics, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Sincerely,
Kevin Borg, Superintendent
Westonka Public Schools
(952) 491-8001
borgk@westonka.k12.mn.us