New EdWeek Research Center reporting finds K–12 leaders are moving budget conversations earlier in the fiscal cycle to avoid reactive, short‑term spending decisions. Superintendents and department heads say beginning budget discussions in November–April, and coordinating priorities across departments early, produces more strategic resource allocation. The research shows timing matters more than wholesale process overhauls: administrators who start priority-setting early report clearer alignment between staffing, curriculum, and long‑term capital needs. The study was backed by Gates Foundation funding and includes nationally representative survey data. Colleges of education and district finance teams should take note: shifting budget timelines affects hiring windows, contract negotiations, and partnership planning with higher‑education providers and vendors.