The Willmar School Board at its regular meeting discussed the revised budget before closing the meeting for a strategy discussion amid ongoing teacher contract negotiations.
The Willmar Public School Board on June 26 approved the original budget for the 2023-2024 school year, with expected general fund revenues of approximately $69.21 million and expected general fund expenditures of approximately $67.36 million.
Federal pandemic relief funding has helped keep Willmar Public Schools operating for the past couple years, but as the funding recedes, budget cuts could be on the way. Since three-quarters of the district's budget is in employee pay and benefits, it's likely staff cuts could be coming in 2023.
Willmar Superintendent Jeff Holm has announced his plans to retire in two years. While it sounds like a long time, hiring a new superintendent can take months. The School Board discussed its next moves at a meeting Thursday, and will likely hire an assistant superintendent who might be able to move into Holm's job in two years.