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Echo SD 5 superintendent reports enrollment dip and looming Title I cut
Summary
Superintendent reported a modest short-term enrollment decline (mainly older students opting for online options), warned of a likely large reduction in federal Title I funds (currently about $56,000), and described state-driven constraints on bus purchases tied to electric-vehicle rules and infrastructure limitations.
The superintendent told the board the district is down a few students this month, primarily among newer high-school–age students who chose online alternatives. "We're down a few kids from the last month," the superintendent said, and added that the district currently does not offer an online program the same way other providers do.
The superintendent also warned of an expected reduction in federal Title I funding. "We only get about $56,000 right now as it is from title 1 funds," the superintendent said, and said preliminary indications show the district could see roughly a 50% cut based on updated census data. The board was told the district would likely have to shift some Title I-supported staffing costs into the general fund if the reduction materializes.
On transportation, the superintendent described procurement constraints under current state rules that push districts toward electric buses but noted charging infrastructure is not available in many parts of the district, making some purchases impractical. He said staff had identified used buses that could meet present needs and that any purchase would be weighed carefully in the budget process. The superintendent also reported that a topographical survey of a district site has been completed and sent to Architects West for drawings.
