Voters May Be Asked To Increase Levy In ISD 196​

TWIN CITIES, MN — School districts across the Twin Cities are facing immediate budget deficits that could result in teachers and support staff being laid off, along with significant cuts to school programs, in the coming years.

Among districts with budget shortfalls is Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan, otherwise known as ISD 196. The district faced a $12 million shortfall this earlier year, according to a study released by the state government.

Fortunately, ISD 196 was able to use reserve funds to cover part of the budget gap, the Star Tribune reported, However, the funding problems don't end there.

Officials are preparing for a $25 million gap in the next three years.

Why such a large gap? District spokesman Tony Taschner believes schools are playing catch-up after years where state aid hasn't kept up with inflation.

Voters will likely be asked to increase local taxes once again next year in order to bridge the funding gap, Taschner told the Star Tribune.

Also read: How Student Debt Compares Across Minnesota Colleges

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