June 15, 2026 6:15p
(WGTD)---Kenosha Unified administration will use a combination of reserves and savings generated by unfilled positions to balance the budget in the upcoming school year. But officials warn that steep cuts may be ahead in the 2027-2028 fiscal year if a planned funding referendum for this November fails.
Administration previously said the district is facing a more than $10 million deficit, even without any wage increases figured in.
Drawing down on the reserves to help erase the shortfall, according to the district, will "significantly" impact the reserve fund and can only be considered as a one-time remedy.
The school board is expected to vote next week on a package of reductions that would go into effect in the following school year if the planned referendum this November is defeated and if the next session of the legislature fails to substantially increase K-12 aid.
The budget-cutting options include eliminating several dozen teaching positions at the secondary level, increasing class sizes, reducing Educational Support Center staffing, cutting 5th grade music lessons and dropping middle school sports.
The school board will continue its discussion Tuesday evening at 6:30 as part of its review of the agenda of next week's regular business meeting.
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