Monroe Public Schools superintendent warns of $5.5 million shortfall, vows balanced budget by June

Superintendent Andy Shaw told the Monroe Public Schools Board of Education on March 9 that the district faces a combined budget shortfall of about $5,500,000 and pledged to present a balanced 2026–27 budget by June 30. Shaw said the district’s target is a roughly $7,000,000 general-fund balance — about 10% of a $72,000,000 budget — and that current audited figures as of June 30, 2025 show about $5,650,000 in fund balance but recent revisions project only about $1,400,000 without additional actions.

Shaw traced the gap to several factors: projected contract and inflationary increases he estimated at about $1.5 million, declining enrollment (a 50‑student FTE loss this year that reduced revenue), and legislative changes that removed about $2.2 million in previously expected general-fund income. "If we do nothing to our current year budget… we're automatically going to be negative $2,500,000," Shaw said, and added that the current-year budget is already showing about a $3,000,000 deficit that contributes to the $5.5 million figure.

Shaw framed the presentation as the start of a deliberative process, saying the board can act only on "large levers" and that any proposals would be considered before final decisions. He said the balanced-budget presentation is required by state timelines and that a budget showing a deficit at the June 30 presentation could trigger additional state oversight. Several board members pressed for more time and additional data before any vote; one member said a vote the next day would be unrealistic. Shaw and staff said they would return with more detailed proposals and supporting numbers for upcoming meetings.