Accomack County School District finance staff told the school board on Tuesday that average daily membership (ADM) on March 31 was 117 students lower than projected, reducing final state revenues by roughly $830,000 for the current fiscal year.

The finance director explained the district originally budgeted using an ADM estimate of 4,581; after state tools updated, the district reduced the estimate by 20 students but still faces a larger-than-expected drop. The board packet included a graph of ADM over time that showed the decline; staff said the causes could include homeschooling, private school transfers, families leaving the area, or attendance issues.

“Is it a trend?” a board member asked; finance staff said further investigation is required. The report also noted that an unexpected sales tax increase of approximately $156,000 partially offset the revenue shortfall.

Staff said federal funds remain on track to meet spend‑down requirements before expiration in September and that the district will keep monitoring enrollment and revenues as it prepares next year’s budget.