Northfield School District announces $6 million budget cuts affecting staff and programs

The Northfield School District Board of Education has announced a significant budget reduction of $6 million, a decision that will impact staff and programs across the district. During the regular meeting held on April 28, 2025, board members expressed gratitude to the over 80 community members who collaborated with administrators to identify these necessary cuts.

The district's budget is heavily reliant on salaries, which account for 80% of expenditures. This reduction comes in response to chronic underfunding from the state and a nationwide decline in student enrollment. Board members emphasized the importance of advocating for better funding from state representatives, highlighting that public schools are primarily financed through a per-pupil funding formula.

The implications of the budget cuts are profound. Students will face larger class sizes and reduced access to essential resources such as mental health support, academic interventions, and extracurricular activities. The board acknowledged that while technology plays a role in education, the human connection remains vital for student success.

As the district navigates these challenges, families will feel the effects of the cuts, with fewer staff members available to support students. The board reiterated the need for adequate state funding to ensure that public education can meet the diverse needs of modern students. The meeting underscored a collective call to action for community members to engage with their representatives to secure the necessary financial support for public education.