Duluth Public Schools will need to make a budgetary adjustment of $5 million for the 2025-2026 school year. Communications Officer Adelle Wellens said these adjustments are in response to several financial challenges including the end of federal pandemic relief funding, inflation, new unfunded legislative mandates, and rising special education costs.

As a result of these challenges, cuts will be made in the budget.

“These decisions are not made lightly,” said Superintendent John Magas. “We understand the impact these adjustments may have, and we are committed to minimizing disruptions to our students’ educational experience.”

The school district is currently planning for an 8% reduction in current school and site staffing budgets totaling $2.35 million between elementary schools and secondary schools, a 10% reduction in District Service Center staffing budget totaling $1.1 million, and a 3.5% reduction in the Special Education department budget totaling $1 million.

“We value the input of our stakeholders and will continue to provide updates as we move forward,” Magas said. “Our goal is to ensure a balanced budget while upholding our commitment to providing a high-quality education for all students.”

More information on the budget can be found here.