Budget Facts: Setting the Record Straight

		Claim: "$142 million siphoned from classrooms" Fact: These one-time state and federal funds directly support teachers and students through investments in critical facilities, safety, employee retirement, and loan repayments. Roofing and HVAC repairs and maintenance Safety and accessibility Modernization of older facilities, including restrooms, and replacement of portable classrooms Athletic facility & playground renovations Transportation - electrical vehicle infrastructure and improved buses Advanced loan repayments for solar projects and facilities Expansion projects for ag facilities, preschools, and community schools Retirement plan pre-funding These dollars cannot be used for ongoing salaries, but they make teaching and learning at PUSD better. To see how these one-time dollars were spent, visit PUSD's Budget Numbers.

		Claim: "Porterville spends only 49% in classrooms - below the state's 55% requirement and $11.9 million has been shorted from classrooms each year" Fact: The state formula excludes school counselors, psychologists, nurses, special education specialists, and intervention staff - all of whom work directly with students daily. PUSD invests heavily in teachers and student support services to meet the real needs of its students.

		Putting People First: How We Spend Our Budget

		The Bottom Line PUSD is a fiscally responsible district that: Invests in safe schools and modern facilities Protects jobs and programs long-term Provides competitive salaries, benefits, and retirement with ongoing revenue Maintains transparency and accountability of every dollar

For more information read our FAQs on PUSD Financials