Leaders in the Grand Forks School District convened on December 12, 2023, to deliberate potential budget cuts as the district faces a significant budget deficit of $4.4 million for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The meeting, which included over 40 participants such as district leaders, administrators, teachers, and School Board members, was part of a series of retreats aimed at realigning the district’s financial priorities.
During the retreat, participants discussed various strategies to address the budget shortfall. Among the proposals were combining elementary schools, reducing course offerings, and cutting student technology services. These discussions represent a critical phase in the budget realignment process, as district officials navigate the challenges of financial sustainability while aiming to preserve educational quality.
Key Proposals for Cost Reduction
One of the primary suggestions involved combining elementary schools into K-2 and 3-5 configurations. Kevin Ohnstad, principal of Phoenix Elementary, presented this idea but acknowledged significant resistance from his peers, who expressed concern that such a move could undermine neighborhood schools. Ohnstad articulated the potential benefits, including improved collaboration among teachers and reduced staffing costs. However, he also highlighted the logistical challenges and community backlash that could arise from merging schools.
Another aspect of the budget discussion focused on cutting courses with low enrollment. Kris Arason, principal of Red River High School, suggested targeting elective classes that typically enroll fewer than 15 students. He assured board members that essential classes required for graduation would remain intact, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high-level opportunities for students.
Technology and Extracurricular Adjustments
The meeting also addressed the district’s approach to technology services. Darin King, the district’s IT manager, proposed shifting from a one-to-one device ratio for students to a one-to-two or one-to-three ratio. Such a change could potentially reduce annual technology upkeep costs from $247,000 to $123,500 for students in grades three through eight. King stressed the need for a sustainable technology policy that aligns with the district’s budgetary constraints.
In addition to these proposals, leaders discussed the possibility of cutting elementary intramural sports, reducing the number of students enrolled in online courses, and pausing curriculum adoptions for elementary schools. To provide a clearer picture of the financial implications of these measures, district Business Manager Brandon Baumbach presented projected savings ranging from $4.4 million to $5.34 million based on various concepts discussed during the retreat.
Despite the weight of the discussions, no official decisions were made during the retreat. Board members indicated that a special meeting would be scheduled in early January to gather public input before finalizing any budgetary changes. Community members are encouraged to visit the district’s website for further information on the budget realignment process and to share their concerns.
As the Grand Forks School District navigates these challenging financial waters, the focus remains on balancing fiscal responsibility with the educational needs of students.
