Dozens of teaching jobs are on the chopping block as Davenport leaders work to finalize a budget for the 2015-2016 school year.
On Monday, February 23, 2015, Superintendent Dr. Art Tate presented a recommendation for next year that would cut roughly $3.5 million from the general fund. Most of the savings would come from early retirements, as well as a reduction in 25 teaching positions.
Marsha Tangen, the district's chief financial officer, calls the plan a 'worst-case scenario.' State legislators have still not determined the amount of Supplemental State Aid schools will receive, so the district is forced to assume zero percent increase when setting its budget.
"Right now, we're going on zero, because the legislature hasn't done anything, but that puts us at a guaranty of at least one percent funding," said Tangen.
Tuesday, Board members also opted not to decrease the property tax levy for next year, but keep it at its current level. The money brought in, though, won't help ease any proposed cuts.
Although the district has plenty of money, the state only allows it to spend a certain amount -- a concept known as 'spending authority.'
"The money we will be levying, we cannot spend it, basically. We have to keep it in reserve," said Tangen.
The Board is expected to approve a budget for 2015-2016 at its March 23rd meeting.