Officials with the North Judson-San Pierre School Corporation are trying to regroup after voters overwhelmingly rejected a tax increase to shore up the general fund. Superintendent Lynn Johnson told WKVI News her immediate priority is to find a way to close out the 2015 budget in the black. The school’s fiscal year ends on Dec. 31. Johnson estimates at least $1 million in cuts will need to be made between now and then.
School Board President Pat Goin says the source of those remains to be seen. Corporation business manager Guy Richie has “sharpened his pencil” and is looking closely at the budget, according to Goin, but it’s too soon to say what might be slashed.
Money in the general fund is used to cover teacher salaries and program costs. Goin says a bond is inevitable at this point.
“We’re going to have to borrow, there’s no doubt about it,” she told WKVI News. “We’ll tighten our belts as tight as we can without jeopardizing the education we provide for our students.”
Goin added in a statement, “I would like to reassure everyone that we are moving forward. No one should listen to the rumors or panic. We are facing challenges, but challenges can lead to opportunities.”
Last week Johnson announced plans to retire at the end of December. The school board is meeting in executive session Monday night to discuss potential interim superintendent candidates. Johnson told WKVI News she remains committed to the corporation and will assist as needed during the transition.
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