Federal Government Shutdown Impact on Oak Harbor Public Schools

Dear Families and Staff, As we reach Day 22 of the federal government shutdown, I want to provide an update on how recent federal actions may affect Oak Harbor Public Schools. Federal Context During the shutdown, the U.S. Department of Education issued layoff notices to many staff within its Office of Elementary and Secondary Education (OESE), including those who manage the Federal Impact Aid program. This program provides essential funding to districts like ours that serve students connected to military families and other federal employers. The layoffs, on top of the shutdown, may disrupt and further delay the processing and distribution of Impact Aid funds nationwide. These actions are part of broader reductions across the Department, including layoffs in the Office of Special Education Programs and the Office for Civil Rights. At this time, we have not received any indication that federal funds for these programs are at risk, but there could be potential short-term impacts to our schools if the shutdown continues. What This Means for Oak Harbor Public Schools Oak Harbor Public Schools relies heavily on Federal Impact Aid to support teaching, staffing and student programs. Approximately, 9 percent of our overall budget comes from federal funding sources. It is still vitally important that all families complete these forms in a timely manner to ensure we receive this critical funding, despite the shut down. Please take a few moments to complete your form in ParentSquare, if you have not already. More information can be found on our website. We also have two major school construction projects funded by the Department of Defense, both of which continue to move forward as planned for now. At this time, we have not received notice of any suspension or cancellation of federal payments, and our federal grant systems remain active. However, with reduced staffing at the federal level, we are preparing for possible delays or interruptions in processing, oversight, and reporting. Our Commitment Oak Harbor Public Schools in partnership with Washington’s Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) continues to uphold strong civil-rights and special-education protections that extend beyond federal requirements. Locally, we remain unwavering in our commitment to serve every student. As #OneOakHarbor, we are guided by our mission to inspire every student to reach their full potential through meaningful relationships, innovative instruction, and a supportive community. Our district leadership team is proactively reviewing fiscal and operational plans to maintain stability, ensure continued progress on construction projects, and safeguard resources that directly support students and classrooms. How You Can Help Stay informed: We will share updates as new information becomes available. Advocate: Reach out to state and federal representatives to emphasize the importance of education funding and the continuity of Impact Aid and the Department of Defense funds. Thank you for your continued support, patience, and advocacy for our students and staff. Together, as #OneOakHarbor, we will remain focused on our mission and ensure that every student is valued, supported, and prepared to thrive—no matter the challenges ahead. With Appreciation, Dr. Michelle Kuss-Cybula Superintendent, Oak Harbor Public Schools