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Building the Budget

Female science teacher, right, in a white lab coat. Student, left, seated, conducting a science experiment

What Drives Our Budget?

About 90% of TSD's budget goes to necessary operating costs that keep our schools safe, warm, dry and staffed with an outstanding team of teachers, administrators and support personnel who care for our students each day. Expenditures reflect the school board's goals, which are adopted in order to address needs and support areas for our students. These goals are developed through a collaborative process where community members, families, staff and students provide input on where TSD should focus its resources.

In 2021, the school board adopted five goals that are guiding the district's efforts through 2025. These goals, known as "Tahoma CARES," drive the district's decision-making and provide a north star for the district to prioritize its spending.

When is the annual budget built?

February
Preliminary enrollment projections

March-June
Financial analysis with regular budget updates to the School Board of Directors

July
Budget published with a public hearing, followed by budget approval and adoption

August
Budget sent to Educational Service District (“ESD”) for review and approval

September
Final date to send budget to Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (“OSPI”) for review and approval

This page will be updated periodically to reflect the latest information (last updated December 2024).

If you have additional budget questions, please send us an email at