Budget Overview
Where Our Funding Comes From
Funding for Hockinson schools comes from four sources:
State Funding: The state provides funding for basic education, including staffing, transportation, and other core school operations.
Local EP&O Levy Funding: Local voter-approved funding that supports programs and services not fully funded by the state, such as student programs, additional staff, and extracurricular activities.
Federal Funding: Supports specific programs required by federal law, such as services for students with disabilities, English language learners, and students from low-income families.
Donations & Grants: Support specific projects at no additional cost to taxpayers.
Budget Revenue by Category
School funding is divided into specific categories, each with rules about how the money can be used. Because these funds are restricted, dollars from one category generally cannot be moved to another to prevent program cuts or pay for unrelated expenses.
Within these legal parameters, Hockinson School District works to be resourceful and creative in how funds are used in order to provide an excellent learning experience for Hockinson students.
General Fund
The district’s primary operating fund supports the day-to-day costs of running schools, including staff salaries, classroom instruction, student services, transportation, and utilities.
Reserves
An emergency fund to maintain financial stability and pay staff on time in case of a lapse in revenue. Hockinson School District is required by policy to maintain a minimum fund balance equal to 8% of the total district budget.
ASB Fund
Associated Student Body funds generated by student activities are managed by students. 100% of these funds support student clubs, athletics, and events.
Capital Projects Fund
This funding comes from impact fees and local tax collections, investment earnings and sale of land proceeds. The Capital Projects Fund can only be used for school construction, building improvements, and major facility repairs.
How Can Budget Categories Impact School Operations?
Does the state fully fund public education?
No. Like many school districts, HSD relies on local levy dollars, grants and donations due to a growing difference between state funding levels and the actual cost of running schools.
In the Media
Inflation
Materials, Supplies & Operating Costs
Inflation in materials, supplies, and operating costs has had a significant impact on the HSD budget.
Insurance Costs are Rising
Inflation combined with state policies has had a significant impact on insurance. In the last five years, Hockinson School District’s annual insurance premium costs have risen by 212%.
In 2025-26, HSD's annual insurance premium costs are projected to be $592,022.
