Ad Hoc Committee recommends budget cuts and salary adjustments for school district

The Beloit School District's recent Board of Education meeting spotlighted urgent budget recommendations aimed at addressing a projected $6.2 million deficit. Ad Hoc Budget Finance Committee Chair Carol Fox presented a series of proposals designed to stabilize the district's financial situation while maintaining essential educational services.

Key among the recommendations is the elimination of a proposed pay freeze for teaching staff, utilizing up to $1 million from the district's Other Post Employment Benefits (OPEB) funds. Fox emphasized the importance of supporting high-quality teaching staff, stating, "If we are to meet the needs of our students, we must provide support." This move aims to recognize the hard work of educators and ensure competitive salaries, although it does not extend to other employee groups facing salary freezes.

Additionally, the committee proposed to eliminate planned insurance increases for all employee groups, again tapping into OPEB funds. This decision is intended to alleviate financial pressure on staff during challenging times. Fox clarified that the OPEB funds, which have not been utilized for employee benefits in years, can be responsibly redirected to support current staff.

The committee also endorsed staff reductions as recommended by district administration, particularly in light of the failed referendum that sought additional funding. This includes a restructuring of positions at the district's COALAC program, targeting a reduction of approximately 25-30% in staffing to align with the district's shrinking size.

Fox concluded her presentation by outlining the financial implications of these recommendations, which collectively aim to bridge the budget gap while minimizing disruption to educational services. The board's decisions in the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the future financial health of the Beloit School District.