$13 million in budget cuts could be coming to South Washington County Schools

South Washington County Schools could cut $13 million from its budget, with staff losses possible but no school closures planned.

The Details

The district is set to discuss the proposal in a virtual meeting Thursday afternoon, with a vote scheduled next Thursday. District leaders said the shortfall comes from declining enrollment across the metro.

5 EYEWITNESS NEWS requested an interview with the superintendent Thursday afternoon, but the district declined. In a response sent within the last few hours, the district said the cuts must happen or it risks “potential statutory operating debt.”

What could change?

The district said no schools would close if the proposal moves forward. It also said staff would be affected, though it was unclear Thursday afternoon how many teachers could lose their jobs.

“When districts need to reduce dollars, there is no way to eliminate the fact that people will lose their jobs when 78% of our spending is invested in staff,” the district said.

Elementary schools would see $4.2 million in cuts. Middle schools and high schools would see combined cuts of $4.5 million.

The remaining cuts would affect facilities, maintenance, transportation, district departments and student support services. Parents were expected to learn more about those effects during the virtual meeting.