Updated
Living Our Values Through Strategic, Student-Centered Budgeting
Our budget is more than a pot of money – it’s a reflection of our values, a blueprint for student success, and a commitment to meeting the diverse needs of every student. Every dollar spent is intentionally aligned with a larger strategy.
At the heart of MUSD’s budget process is a needs-based approach that ties funding directly to student outcomes. This strategy ensures resources are directed where they are most needed – so that each student has access to the tools, programs, and support systems required to thrive. Whether it’s base curriculum, academic intervention, social-emotional supports, or expanded learning opportunities, the budget is built to support each department and school strategic plan – funding the specific needs they’ve identified and prioritized using data.
“Over the past several years, MUSD has undergone a systemic culture shift in how we view and use financial resources,” shared Victoria Brunn, Manteca Unified’s Chief Business & Information Officer. “As a team, we are now operating in complete alignment – from the classroom to the Boardroom – anchoring every financial decision to our strategic plan, our three district targets, and our LCAP. This alignment ensures that our three-year LCAP cycle, department and school plans, and District budget are no longer separate processes – they are one cohesive system centered on student need.”
An example of this shift is found in the everyday language used by school leaders and staff. Where we once asked, “What can I spend this money on?” we now ask, “I need [this] for my students—how can I make this happen?” This change in dialogue reflects a mindset that puts student needs before funding constraints, and empowers site leaders to be problem-solvers and advocates for their school communities.
As part of this culture shift, MUSD has adopted a balanced budget that prioritizes equity and sustainability. Our budget planning process is built around long-term stability and is directly responsive to the diverse needs of students across our district. For every dollar we spend, $0.82 goes directly toward classroom learning – a testament to our commitment to invest in what matters most: students.
This commitment to transparency, alignment, and strategic use of funds has earned MUSD global recognition for fiscal excellence. For the fourth consecutive year, Moody’s Investors Service reaffirmed MUSD’s strong ‘Aa2’ credit rating –reflecting sound financial stewardship and the district’s ability to responsibly plan for the future while meeting the needs of students today.
In short, what budgeting means in Manteca Unified is this: every plan has a purpose, every dollar has a direction, and every student is at the center of it all.
- Business Services