After about a month of waiting, the Norfolk Public Schools district has found out that federal funds will be released.
While the district is still waiting for a few details, the update was the outcome that it was hoping for. NPS already has received a couple of updates on numbers.
“We do anticipate there will be a little reduction in those funds from previous years,” said Erik Wilson, associate superintendent of business services, “but it is at least nice to know that we’re going to be receiving those federal funds.”
Wilson emphasized that the situation isn’t dire — yet. Now, the district can plan and budget for those funds moving forward. NPS is working through the impact of reduced funding as part of its budget process.
There is a $3 million decrease in state equalization aid because of an increase in local property valuations and a levy rate nearing 90 cents — below the state’s benchmark of $1. The district also is working through a zero base budget for 2025-26, not adding anything to the budget for the next year. The district is looking at a potential 1.2% to 1.24% decrease in expenses for the 2025-26 school year.
The federal budget numbers won’t be released fully until Wednesday, Aug. 20, but once the district has those numbers, it can set the levy and figure out what its options are. The board’s last meeting of the current fiscal year is scheduled for Monday, Aug. 25, when final bills and transfers will be approved.
On Monday, Sept. 8, NPS budget and tax hearings are scheduled, with the budget to be adopted two weeks later based upon the board’s recommendations.
While this situation is not one that many would prefer to be in, officials said NPS is working hard to make sure that, despite reductions, NPS students and families are still the top priority.
