Seaford, Del. — At its Dec. 15 board meeting the Seaford School District reported it must return $634,068 to the state as part of a statewide funding adjustment and outlined a plan to minimize the local impact by reallocating fractional state-funded positions and relying on grants where possible.

During the financial section of the agenda a district finance presenter said, “as you're aware of the state give back, we this year have to give back $634,068.” The presenter described an "alternative reduction plan" that prioritizes using small fractional units and partials to preserve discretionary local funds. That approach, the presenter said, sacrifices small state-funded fractions (for example 0.16 or 0.17 of a unit) to avoid the state reclaiming broader discretionary funds.

The presenter said the district proposes reducing six teacher units in this cycle, acknowledging that the district still expects to hire additional positions funded through consolidated grants and federal programs as vacancies and grant opportunities arise. "We also did 6 teacher units," the presenter said, and added that the district expects to hire through consolidated grants (IDEA, title programs) where funding allows.

Board members questioned the policy rationale behind the "give back." Several trustees described the requirement as counterproductive, noting the district’s aging facilities and ongoing needs. One board member summarized the sentiment: taking money back while expecting improved outcomes does not align with local priorities. The finance presenter reiterated that across Delaware K‑12 districts the total statewide return approximates $26 million and that Seaford’s share is $634,068.

No formal vote on district staffing was taken that evening; the discussion closed with the board asking staff to continue detailing implementation pathways and the financial office signaling follow‑up reports.

The district did not provide a timetable for restoring any teacher units that might be reduced; staff indicated rehiring would depend on grant awards and vacancy timing.