School board outlines budget priorities for 2025-26 including teacher salaries and facility maintenance

The recent KUSD Referendum Community Town Hall Meeting held on January 9, 2025, addressed critical financial concerns facing the Kenosha Unified School District (KUSD) as it prepares for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year. The meeting highlighted the district's need for funding to cover various essential expenses, including technology upgrades, maintenance, and salary increases.

A significant portion of the discussion focused on the allocation of funds, with district officials outlining the financial challenges that have arisen from the depletion of COVID relief funds. The district is facing a $1 million gap in its technology refresh budget, which previously relied on these funds. Additionally, major maintenance costs for facilities, also amounting to $1 million, have been pushed into the budget, necessitating urgent attention.

The meeting revealed that health insurance rates are projected to rise by 11%, contributing to an estimated $4 million increase in costs. Furthermore, modest salary adjustments and inflationary increases for staff are expected to total around $5.5 million. The district is also looking to address professional development needs for teachers, which will require an additional $4.5 million. Lastly, $3 million is earmarked for debt service related to the installation of controlled entrances in schools, enhancing safety measures.

Concerns were raised about how these financial decisions would impact renters in the community. While property owners directly pay property taxes, any increase in these taxes could lead landlords to raise rents, indirectly affecting tenants. This connection between property taxes and rental costs underscores the broader implications of the district's financial strategies.

Another topic of discussion was the district's "right sizing" initiative, aimed at aligning the district's resources with its current enrollment numbers, which have decreased by over 5,000 students from their peak. This recalibration is seen as necessary to ensure the district operates efficiently in light of changing demographics.

The meeting also touched on the importance of competitive wages for teachers, emphasizing that maintaining a strong teaching staff is crucial for the district's success. However, questions arose regarding the district's approach to ensuring these competitive wages amidst budget constraints.

In conclusion, the KUSD Referendum Community Town Hall Meeting highlighted the district's pressing financial needs and the potential ripple effects on the community. As the district navigates these challenges, the discussions underscored the importance of transparency and community engagement in shaping the future of education in Kenosha. The next steps will involve continued dialogue with stakeholders and careful consideration of funding strategies to support both students and staff effectively.