SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — School districts statewide are in the process of finding means to make up for the loss of COVID-era funding that was suddenly dropped at the start of April.

The federal government has revoked ESSER funds as part of its ongoing efforts to reduce government spending. Without access to these funds, the district will need to explore alternative funding solutions, many of which are still pending.

Currently, funding from the U.S. Department of Education makes up 20% of the budget. In addition, the district's tax revenue is still under assessment, and negotiations with teachers regarding their contracts are ongoing.

School Board President Micah Miller said the district is still evaluating their options.
 
"Without these larger pieces of the puzzle starting to solidify and see what those hard numbers are, it's really hard at this point to say exactly where are we going to be," said Miller.
 
Superintendent Jennifer Gill of Springfield District 186 has developed a three-year repayment plan aimed at eliminating the district's deficit. To achieve this, the district plans to reduce 15 teaching positions through retirements and voluntary departures, rather than layoffs.

This strategy is expected to save the district at least $2 million, significantly reducing the deficit."We started out looking at about $20 million in deficit." Miller explained. "I think it was closer to $22 million. Looks like we're going to end the year, around $9 million."
 
The plan suggests that the district delay replacing fleet vehicles and adding solar panels at more schools to save on utilities.
For now, the SCOPE after school program will not be cut, but board members did vote for a 30 dollar price increase for the summer session. "When we had more available funding, we were able to do more field trips, more fun things for the school program" Miller stated. "But, you know, you just have to live within your means."
 
Although much is still up in the air, officials are evaluating all avenues for the best way to provide for the district.
 
"As we get closer through the year, we'll, we'll start to, get a better idea Of exactly where we are. But we've made substantial progress. And I'm confident that we'll be in a good spot." Miller said.
 
Copyright 2025. WAND TV. All rights reserved.