The Brandon School District will tackle an estimated budget reduction of approximately $1.6 million. The 2003-2004 school budget is $27.5 million.
The reductions, which will affect about 20 general budgeted areas, follows statewide cuts in education funding and other cost increases.
‘Our primary concern is that no programs will be cut for the students,? said Bart Jenniches, Brandon Schools Superintendent. Brandon employees will receive a 3 to 3 1/2 percent wage increase as part of their contract and no jobs will be lost, added Jenniches.
While Brandon will escape any major losses in programs, things may be different next year.
‘We looked at ways to cut without effecting the kids, we did a fine job,? said Nancy Strohschein, Brandon School Board and budget committee member.
‘Yet next year more budget cuts may come up and there comes a point that we can’t do this again, especially if the state makes more changes in funding.?