The district is developing a budget FAQ related to the 2025-26 school budget. If you have any questions related to the budget, please fill out this form.
We will continue to update the FAQ throughout the spring, leading up to the May 20 budget vote.
Updated April 3, 2025
What cost increases created the budget deficit this year?
The deficit is caused by a number of factors. According to the January state aid runs, the state aid revenue that the district was projected to receive this year is $130,000 less than anticipated. Additionally, health insurance costs over a two year period (2024-25 & 2025-26) increased by nearly 30%, resulting in a $1.3 million increase. Lastly, after the 2024-25 budget was adopted, the district hired additional staff to accommodate the needs of students, resulting in an increase of approximately $500,000 that was not budgeted.
How is the district addressing the rising health insurance costs?
In the fall, the district assembled a health insurance committee to review other consortiums and health insurance offerings. The committee will continue to review additional offerings next school year. If the district were to leave the consortium, it is required to provide at least six months notice and may be required to pay any outstanding balances that are owed, which could create another budget shortfall for the following year. The district is also considering a wellness program for employees, which could cut down on the district’s use of its insurance.
Has the district maximized attrition opportunities over the past few years?
In the past, the district has not maximized cost savings opportunities through attrition. This year and moving forward, the district will work to realize cost savings based on retirements and resignations through attrition.
How were positions chosen to be cut?
Last year, due to declining enrollment, grades K-2 decreased from four sections to three, which put grades K-6 at three sections each. This year, the high school positions were cut based on providing three sections for high school students as a result of small class sizes due to declining enrollment.
What will the student-to-teacher ratio be next year as a result of the cuts and attrition?
Based on student enrollment and teachers for this school year, the student-to-teacher ratios are currently:
- 10.3 to 1 in the elementary school
- 8.2 to 1 in the junior/senior high school
Based on student enrollment and teacher projections for 2025-26, the student-to-teacher ratios are estimated to be:
- 10.9 to 1 in the elementary school
- 11.0 to 1 in the junior/senior high school
These figures are below the statewide average student-to-teacher ratio.