CARROLLTON -- "It's unprecedented. It's a very sobering situation,” said Carrollton Public Schools Superintendent Craig Douglas in reaction to the $165 per student cut in school aid funding from the state. The decision was made late last week as state lawmakers continue to finish budget bills after a 30-day extension.
The cuts will hit budgets for the 2009-2010 school year in districts across the state, and will especially hurt districts that have seen a decline in enrollment. Carrollton has roughly 1,800 students enrolled this year and has seen a slight increase, picking up students from surrounding districts. However, the cuts will mean a $300,000 slice ripped from the pie.
“Very much on the table, we’ll be taking a look at all programs and all levels of staff,” Douglas said, adding that 80 percent of his budget is in staff.
The district will offer a budget amendment at a November school board meeting for this year’s budget, but Douglas warns things could get much worse.
"I had a breakfast meeting (Monday morning) in which they are talking about cuts next year that could be $300, $400, $500 maybe $600 per pupil on top on this one! If that happens, all bets are off."
