Board weighs Robert Morris preschool enrollment strategy as district seeks to reach break-even

Board members and district administrators discussed the budget pressures associated with the Robert Morris preschool program and described recruitment and program-scaling options intended to reduce the district’s deficit exposure.

An administrator reported a meeting with Genesee County representatives and other stakeholders and said four new offers had been issued to families in an effort to fill open slots. Officials told the board they are targeting 15–20 additional students to return this year to improve revenue. The program has 48 slots total; administrators said filling those seats from day one would allow the program to approach break-even, while scaled options (e.g., planning for 36 or 40 students) would require staffing and classroom adjustments.

A finance-related figure cited during the discussion said state reimbursement is about $36,000 per student for a full year, which the board noted would materially affect program revenue if additional students enroll. Board members asked whether any additional staff would be required if enrollment increases; administrators said they expect to maximize existing classroom space and only add staff as required by enrollment and placement rules, using seniority and reassignment conversations where necessary.

Administrators said they will continue recruitment efforts, report back with the list of staff who sign up for any after-hours MOA work and include the program in budget-planning discussions leading into the next fiscal year.