The USD 503 Board of Education is facing additional financial challenges than expected as it prepares for the 2026-2027 school year.
The district had projected a $600,000 budget shortfall due to declining enrollment and has made significant budget cuts in recent months. However, board members learned Monday night that additional costs tied to special education could further strain district finances. Superintendent Lori Perkins says a software transition issue at Tri-County Special Education led to miscalculations that were only recently discovered, revealing a $2 million discrepancy. As a result, USD 503's anticipated increase in special education costs could potentially double from about $127,000 to about $254,000. An outside accountant is scheduled to review the figures later this week.
Board Member LeeAnn Hunter, who also serves on the Tri-County board, says no additional state funding for special education is expected this year. Kansas is constitutionally required to reimburse school districts for 92% of excess special education costs but currently covers only about 67%. Last year, USD 503 absorbed roughly $1 million in special education expenses that were not reimbursed by the state. District officials say that amount could increase to around $1.25 million this year, further reducing funds available for salaries, maintenance and other district needs.
