Hoping for the best, yet preparing for the worst, the Orland Elementary School District 135 Board of Education has approved drastic measures for the next school year in case voters reject a tax-increase referendum question is rejected by voters next month.
“This is a very difficult time for any superintendent and board of education. With the economy in the state that it is in, superintendents must look realistically at the financial picture, not just today, but in the future,” said Supt. Linda Anast-May.
The district has placed a 42-cent increase on the April 5 ballot. The hike, to $2.44 per $100 of equalized assessed value, includes funds for curriculum, technology and building improvements.
The reduction plan includes $5.1 million in the education fund as well as other cuts totaling more than $345,000.
If the referendum item fails, officials said, staff would be reduced, class sizes would increase, and music and other programs would be slashed.
Without a tax increase, officials said, the district would face a $5 million deficit. The fund for at least 12 years has incurred a deficit for at least 12 years, but the district has managed to remain afloat by borrowing and paying interest, district officials said.