The next school budget is being built around a familiar tension: nearly every program has a strong case behind it, but the available dollars do not stretch far enough to fund every request at once.

At a recent work session, board members focused on bus routes, special education staffing, and repairs at several older buildings. Administrators said they are trying to protect classroom positions while avoiding cuts that simply move costs into a later year.

A public hearing is expected before the budget is adopted. Families who want to follow the process can find meeting agendas and budget documents through the district website.