Tri Creek Schools plans to combat $300K loss with marketing and LED projects

In a recent meeting of the Tri-Creek School Corporation Board of School Trustees, held on April 10, 2025, pressing financial challenges and proactive measures took center stage. As board members gathered, the atmosphere was charged with concern over impending budget constraints and the need for strategic planning to ensure the district's sustainability.

One of the most significant topics discussed was the anticipated rate increase from NIPSCO, projected at approximately 19%, with an additional potential rise of 6-8%. This increase could cost the school district around $250,000, prompting discussions about energy-saving initiatives. Board members highlighted plans to bid for LED lighting upgrades at the high school, which could lead to substantial savings in operational costs. The potential return on investment from such projects was emphasized as a crucial step in mitigating financial strain.

Enrollment figures also raised alarms, with projections indicating a decline of 40 students for the upcoming year. Given that each student generates over $78,000 in tuition support, this drop could result in a loss of approximately $300,000 in revenue. To counter this trend, the board is considering a marketing plan aimed at attracting new students from surrounding communities, emphasizing the importance of maintaining enrollment levels to secure funding.

The meeting also touched on broader legislative issues affecting school funding. Board members expressed concerns about Senate Bill 1, which could lead to a significant financial hit over the next three years, amounting to approximately $3.6 million. The discussion highlighted the delicate balance between maintaining current funding levels and the potential need for tax increases to support essential services.

In addition to financial discussions, the board reviewed operational matters, including a personnel report and updates on various school programs. The cafeteria meal prices were also a topic of consideration, with plans to potentially increase prices to align with regional averages and cover rising operational costs.

As the meeting concluded, board members acknowledged the challenging times ahead, with the possibility of difficult decisions regarding staffing and class sizes looming. The commitment to proactive measures and community engagement was clear, as the Tri-Creek School Corporation navigates these turbulent waters in pursuit of educational excellence.