Superintendent Miriam Mickelson plans to bring a resolution to the board’s Oct. 21 meeting seeking authorization to begin that work. The resolution would include preliminary forecasts, but the district has not identified any proposed cuts.

Interim Finance Director Bob Blyth told the board the district has enough money to operate, though its cash balance was low ahead of larger annual property tax revenues expected later this fall. On Aug. 31, 4J had about $3 million in cash, or roughly one week of expenses, he said.

Blyth described the current period as the leanest in his decade at the district. Fuel costs are about 36% higher than initially projected, and the state funding outlook for next school year remains uncertain. The district may not have a clearer picture until April or May.

4J began its budget process early last year amid declining enrollment and rising costs, ultimately eliminating more than 260 jobs. About 90% of district spending is tied to personnel, Blyth said. Finance and human resources staff are monitoring staffing and spending, and the district now runs financial reports weekly.

At the board meeting, Eugene Education Association President Jamie Myers warned that teachers are struggling with larger classes, increased student caseloads and more students who need additional support. Myers said teachers are working 10- to 12-hour days and that some are considering leaving the district or the profession.

The proposed resolution would begin planning, not enact reductions. Its timing comes as school employees raise concerns about workload and the district waits for the state funding information needed to build its next budget.