The superintendent of the Judson Independent School District, Milton Fields, clarified on Tuesday evening that his administration has no intention of recommending mid-year layoffs in response to the district’s budget deficit. This statement comes in light of a draft financial solvency plan dated October which suggested potential job cuts by February. Fields emphasized that such layoffs were never a formal recommendation, describing the document as an early draft aimed at preparing for possible future actions.
Fields reassured stakeholders during a specially called board meeting that the district will not pursue severance pay for staff nor recommend job losses this school year. “Mid-year (reduction in force) — we’re not recommending that,” he stated, reflecting his commitment to maintaining staffing levels despite financial challenges.
The discussions also included the prospect of closing three schools, as flagged in an earlier draft plan from September. While specific campuses were mentioned, Fields noted no final decisions have yet been made, underscoring the need for a thorough growth and planning process.
Deputy Superintendent Cecilia Davis shared further insights into the district’s financial strategy, indicating plans to implement $30 million in cuts across staffing and programming over the next two years to avert immediate layoffs. This approach relies on attrition, contract expirations, and policy-based changes rather than formal reductions in force.
Board President Monica Ryan expressed concern regarding the district’s fund balance, suggesting that extending the cuts over two years could dangerously lower the reserve funds below the 60-day threshold. Maintaining financial health is a priority, as the district currently operates with a fund balance equivalent to a savings account that covers approximately 75 days of operating expenses.
Fields reiterated, “We’re not trying to go below 75 with the recommended cuts that we have coming up for next year,” aiming to position the district responsibly as it navigates its budget.
Trustees informally agreed on several budget parameters, which include avoiding an increase in class sizes and retaining current base salaries and benefits. Another consideration was to reduce payroll expenditures as a percentage of revenue from 91% to 84% over the next two years. To achieve these financial goals, Davis indicated a need to eliminate approximately 500 positions, demonstrating the significant adjustments the district faces moving forward.
These measures reflect the district’s strategic planning and commitment to fiscal responsibility, suggesting that while challenges lie ahead, there are concerted efforts to navigate them prudently while safeguarding educational initiatives and workforce stability.