Hamilton Southeastern (HSE) School Superintendent Patrick Mapes sent a message to families in the district lately explaining how some of the proposals from state legislators could impact the money available to our local schools.  A news story posted April 8 from WFYI reporter Rachel Fradette provides details of the budget legislation now before Indiana lawmakers, and it is not good news for HSE Schools.

Based on the numbers provided in the bill, with important footnotes, HSE Schools could lose $21 million in funding over a 3-year period.  It is difficult to imagine how our local school district would be able to absorb such a loss in funding, with so many programs on the chopping block in such a situation.

If there is any good news, this is a process and it is not over yet.  Much can happen between now and later this month when it is likely a legislative conference committee will write the final version of a 2-year budget for the state.  However, both House and Senate leaders seem to be saying this is the budget they want.

Other local government entities, including cities, towns, townships, counties and libraries, would all suffer financially under this proposal for property tax relief.

You can read Rachel Fradette’s entire story at this link.