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Budget problems haunt Calhoun County schools
Comments 0 | Recommend 0CALHOUN COUNTY, Mich. (NEWSCHANNEL 3) – Budget problems are haunting several school districts in Calhoun County, that includes districts in Albion and Athens.
Both schools have already had to make major cuts, and with declining enrollment, consolidation could be in the future for both.
Empty classrooms are becoming a reality at many districts across Calhoun County as low enrollment is even forcing some districts to close down buildings just to stay alive.
Across Calhoun County, districts are making tough decisions, decisions which could really impact the community.
“I am sad because we have a wonderful school,” said Athens resident Judie Knowles. “I am a mother, grandmother, community member. We are in this for the long haul, and do what we need to do.”
As the number of students decline and costs go up, some small districts are being forced to trim their budgets. In Athens, the district will have to close down one of its schools.
“The board recommended closing one of our three buildings for next fall,” said Rich Franklin of Athens Public Schools.
That move would save the district nearly $200,000 annually in operating costs.
“Our district is so small, our fund balance so low, there is no room for error,” said Franklin.
It's the same story in Albion, where the district doesn't have the funds to keep the middle school in operation.
“Some people think it's the center piece of the community, it's a nostalgic building,” said Fred Clarke of Albion Public Schools.
After months of cost cutting, the Albion school board is faced with the decision of whether to keep the middle school open or move the sixth, seventh, and eighth grades to other buildings throughout the district.
“The only last option is looking at some of our buildings, consolidating space to be more efficient,” said Clarke.
As a result of the school closings, both superintendents tell Newschannel 3 that there could also be staff and teacher layoffs, but final decisions won't be made until later in the school year.
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