UPDATE: August 20, 2025 at 11:05 p.m.
The Moses Lake School District responded to the report aired by Nonstop Local on Tuesday, August 19, clarifying that it is not entering the new school year with a budget shortfall. Officials stated there are no significant new cuts to materials, supplies or travel in the 2025-26 budget.
Travel reductions are part of a commitment made last year following the financial challenges of 2024. The district emphasized that materials and supplies are being realigned to the correct categories for a more accurate and transparent budget.
The new school levy, which voters adopted earlier this year, is set to go into effect in May. This levy is expected to support the district’s financial planning and budgeting efforts.
MOSES LAKE, Wash. – As the new school year approaches, the Moses Lake School District is grappling with a budget shortfall and the closure of Groff Elementary School. The district is working to address these challenges as they prepare for the upcoming year.
The district has identified a $20 million budget shortfall. Superintendent Carol Lewis emphasized their efforts to manage finances.
“One of the things that we’ve really worked hard to do is to get our school district into a place where we are not spending more than is coming in,” Lewis stated.
The proposed 2025-26 budget includes significant cuts to supplies, materials and travel expenses. Ruby Perez, the new business manager, has been tasked with aligning the budget. The district anticipates relief next year with a new school levy and additional state support.
Groff Elementary School will remain closed for at least the entire school year due to major electrical and structural issues identified by forensic building experts. The district is currently suing Fowler Construction, the company responsible for the school’s construction.
Community members interested in the proposed budget details can attend a presentation by Perez on Thursday, August 21, at 6 p.m. at the Moses Lake School Board Room. The presentation will also be available via livestream on the school board’s website.
