By Steve Stiffler
Engadine Consolidated Schools is facing budget challenges as the school works to balance the district’s finances following the loss of federal COVID-era funding.
During the school board’s August meeting, board members discussed projections showing the district could finish the year nearly $500,000 behind if spending continues at the same rate as last year. Superintendent Heather Luoto said the final financial picture will not be known until the district’s audit, currently underway, is completed.
Luoto said several factors contributed to the district’s financial position, including raises for administrators, teachers and support staff, inflation, the purchase of a special education van, boiler repairs and reductions in federal Title funding.
The district’s general fund balance was boosted in recent years by COVID relief funding, but that funding has since ended.
Daryl Schroeder, board president said the district had about $807,000 in its general fund during 2025-26. Approximately $400,000 was later used in planning for the 2026-27 school year. Much of the earlier balance was connected to COVID-era funding that temporarily helped strengthen the district’s finances.
Luoto stated, “If we spend this year, like we did last year, we’ll end up with a 0% fund balance. You want at least 3% to 5% for the state.”
Enrollment will also determine how much the district must cut. Additional students could help offset much of the projected shortfall. “Ideally, we need like 17 students to cover a lot of that [shortfall],” Schroeder said.
The district is already taking a cautious look at staffing decisions. A sixth-grade teaching position was approved on a part-time basis, with the possibility of becoming full time depending on finances. Other possible reductions have been discussed but were tabled until a clearer picture of enrollment and the final audit numbers are reviewed.
The board also addressed questions about the district’s separate $8.15 million facilities grant. Those funds are restricted to specific building projects and cannot be used for salaries, classroom staffing, or operating expenses.
The board approved the hiring of Joe Brownson as the new K-12 administrator. Brownson was already employed by the district as a secondary math teacher. Mary Ruxlow was hired as the new 1st grade teacher.
