Superintendent outlines $5M gap, authorizes relocation of Netti Hartnett program

Superintendent Dr. Adams told the Board of Education that USD 453 is working to close an approximate $5 million budget shortfall for the coming year and has authorized reprogramming that includes relocating the Netti Hartnett program.

Nut graf: The district attributed about half of the $5 million gap to projected enrollment losses and the other half to higher projected expenditures (insurance and other cost increases). To reduce operating costs the superintendent authorized moving Netti Hartnett programs into suite 2 at the Intermediate Center and said staff were notified the same day.

Dr. Adams described the budget as a $5,000,000 shortfall identified January 13, 2025. "Half of that is due to the loss of student enrollment," he said, adding the other half stems from projected expenditure increases such as health and property insurance. The administration reported identified reductions: a 3.5 full‑time equivalent reduction in administrative staff (an 8% district administrative FTE reduction) and about 22 certified FTE reductions under consideration; the administration said it is prepared to spend some cash balance but not exhaust reserves. As of the presentation the district reported approximately $3.0 million found through cuts and $1.2 million remaining to find.

On program changes, Dr. Adams said: "I am authorizing the program relocation of the Netti Hartnett programs effective with August of 2025." The plan places those programs in Suite 2 at the Intermediate Center; the administration said it will install a secured entrance to create a "school within a school" separation. The superintendent said the affected student population is "right around 30" and the staff FTE impact is "in the neighborhood of 15." Dr. Adams emphasized he does not have authority in this meeting to close or sell buildings and that future board actions would be required regarding the building’s long-term disposition.

The board asked about timeline and staff impact. Administration said moves would occur during the summer (as early as June, as late as July) to be in place for the August start; some positions will be eliminated at the FTE level, but individuals may transfer if willing.

Ending: The district will return with further briefings and operational details. The superintendent said affected parents and staff would be notified as early as the next day and that the board would see items about the building’s future at a later time if needed.