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District Finances

Just the facts

The spending budget

Sedro-Woolley School District has a $95 million spending budget for 2025-2026, which is $6.2 million more than the previous year and a $46 million increase from 10 years ago.  The 2025-2026 budget estimates 4,237 total student FTE and a per student expenditure of approximately $22,447, which is $5,537 more than in 2020-2021.

More spending has not increased learning. The Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction shows that a mere 42.2% of Sedro-Woolley students have consistent grade-level knowledge of English, 32.5% of math and 43.4% of science.  82.2% of Sedro-Woolley students graduate in 4 years. Many are concerned that students are graduating without essential knowledge and skills.

Where does the budget go?

Only 3.4% of the total district budget is spent on student supplies, instructional resources and non-capitalized items.  Employee salaries and benefits account for 88% of the budget. Travel, purchased services and capital outlay account for the remainder of the budget.

District Salaries

District salaries exceed the average income for a Sedro-Woolley resident. 

  • District administrators earn an average of $219,724 salary per year (2024-2025)

  • Certificated teachers earn an average of $113,371 salary per 9 month contract (2024-2025)

  • The superintendent earns an average of $265.142 salary per year (2024-2025)

  • Principals earn an average of $188,305 per 10 month contract (2024-2025)

  • The per-capita income for Sedro-Woolley was $31,955 per year, according to the most recent data from Census Reporter (2023)

 

Key takeaway

An increase in the district budget of millions of dollars has not translated into higher student achievement. Less than half of students show grade-level competency in English, math, and science, even with the dedication of teachers and staff who work daily to support student learning. Most students do graduate within four years, reflecting the guidance and support they receive. The majority (88%) of the district budget goes to salaries and benefits, rather than directly to the classroom. Salaries and benefits for district employees far exceed the average per capita income for Sedro-Woolley workers.