The Southern Door County School District Board of Education is considering adding an operational referendum question to the November ballot. This decision comes after a non-recurring operational referendum question failed in the spring election, with 56% of voters saying “no” to a three-year operational referendum worth $3.15 million per year.

Financial Challenges

The district has been facing financial challenges, resulting in job cuts and the elimination of sports teams. Superintendent Dr. Kevin Krutzik stated that the board’s decision to explore an operational referendum for November is an important step in addressing these challenges. The district is committed to engaging with staff, families, and community members to evaluate their options.

The previous referendum’s failure has left the district with a $1.67 million budget deficit. If the board decides to pursue a November referendum, the amount sought would be less than the $3.15 million proposal in April. The district operated on a $975,000 referendum for the last three years, which ended on June 30.

State Funding and Enrollment

Referendum critics argue that schools need to reduce spending, citing declining enrollment as a reason to hire fewer teachers or administrators. The Wisconsin State Senate rejected a budget deal that included $600 million for schools, citing concerns about creating a deficit. School districts, including Southern Door, argue that state spending for schools has not kept up with inflation.

Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.