The new state budget may look like a win for education, but for the Van Buren Intermediate School District (VBISD), it actually brings a major funding challenge. When all the changes are added up, VBISD is facing a net loss of more than $845,000 for the coming year.
That loss means new funding in areas like Special Education and Career & Technical Education (CTE) is being completely wiped out by cuts and cost shifts in other important programs. As a result, VBISD is concerned that this shortfall could affect the essential services and supports provided to local school districts and more than 15,000 students across Van Buren County.
Where the Funding Gap Comes From
Retirement Cost Shift:
The largest hit comes from changes to how school employee retirement costs are funded. The state eliminated nearly $2 million that previously helped VBISD cover these mandatory expenses. While there was a small adjustment to lower the overall cap, the change still leaves VBISD paying about $650,000 more each year out of its regular operating budget, money that otherwise would go directly to classrooms and student support.
Cuts to Early Childhood and Adult Education:
The Early Childhood Block Grant, which provided $342,000 for preschool programs that help children get ready for kindergarten, has been completely eliminated. Funding for Adult Education was also reduced by $68,000, making it harder for adults in our community to finish their high school education or build new career skills.
What It Means for Our Community
VBISD appreciates the modest increases in some areas of the budget, but those gains don’t come close to covering what’s been lost. The district is now carefully reviewing its budget to limit the impact on students and staff as much as possible.
“Our top priority will always be doing what’s best for kids,” said Dave Manson, Superintendent of Van Buren ISD. “These changes make it harder to provide the same level of support our local schools and families count on. We’re going to keep looking for ways to make sure our students continue to receive the services they deserve.”