Monday, September 14, 2026

Town hall meeting school auditorium
Education

Town Hall Meeting Draws Record Attendance on School Budget Debate

Priya NairSeptember 13, 20263 min read

More than 400 residents packed the auditorium to weigh in on proposed cuts to arts and extracurricular programs.

A record 400-plus residents turned out for Tuesday's town hall on the school district's proposed budget, which includes cuts to arts programs, after-school activities, and two assistant principal positions.

The meeting, held at Lincoln High School's auditorium, ran nearly three hours as parents, teachers, students, and community members lined up to address the school board.

"These programs are not extras — they are why kids stay in school," said parent Keisha Drummond, drawing sustained applause from the crowd.

Superintendent Dr. Lena Vasquez acknowledged the community's concerns and said the board would explore alternative revenue sources before finalizing cuts. A revised budget proposal is expected within 30 days.