10/12/2026
Why is an operational referendum needed?
One factor is special education funding. For the 2026-27 school year, GBAPS is anticipating receiving approximately 38% reimbursement (which is what we received in 2025-26) for special education services, despite a state commitment of 45%, resulting in $5 million less in revenue than anticipated over the 2 year state budget.
For the last several years, the District has been transferring more than $30 million a year to cover the difference between the cost of services and what is reimbursed by the state.
As these unreimbursed costs continue to grow, they place increasing pressure on the District's operating budget. The 2026 Operational Referendum would provide funding to help sustain student programs, maintain services, and continue supporting the needs of all learners.
β‘οΈ Learn more at gbaps.org/2026Referendum.