Board Reviews Financial Outlook, Projected Reduction Plan Following May Levy Outcome

Board Reviews Financial Outlook, Projected Reduction Plan Following May Levy Outcome

At its June 1, 2026, Special Meeting (Work Session), the Pickerington Local Schools Board of Education reviewed the District's financial outlook and discussed the phased projected reduction plan previously shared with families, staff, and the community in March should the May levy not pass.

At the time of the March communication, the District projected a deficit of approximately $14 million by Fiscal Year 2029. Updated financial projections now show that deficit growing to approximately $19 million by Fiscal Year 2029.

As communicated prior to the election, the District developed a phased approach to reducing expenditures should additional operating revenue not be approved by voters. The purpose of the plan is to align expenditures with projected revenues and maintain the District's financial stability.

Phase I: Current Projected Reductions

The District is moving forward with the first phase of projected reductions outlined in March, including:

• Reductions in administrative, instructional, and student support positions
• Central office staffing reductions
• Reduction of secondary librarian positions
• Elimination of general fund-supported field trips
• Increased pay-to-participate fees
• Elimination of return transportation from away athletic contests
• Reduction of select athletic teams
• Elimination of Summer School 2026
• Departmental budget reductions

These reductions are projected to generate approximately $3.28 million in annual savings.

Potential Projected Future Reductions

District administrators also reviewed additional projected reductions that may become necessary if future operating revenue is not secured.

Phase II – January 2027

Potential projected reductions include:

• Additional reductions in instructional and support personnel
• Reduction of instructional coaching positions
• Reduction of high school elective offerings
• Elimination of on-campus College Credit Plus courses
• Additional reductions to athletic programming

Phase III – July 2027

Potential projected reductions include:

• Additional reductions to elective offerings
• Transportation reduced to state minimum requirements
• Elimination of middle school band and orchestra
• Additional pay-to-participate fee increases
• Further administrative and instructional staffing reductions
• Additional reductions to athletic opportunities
• Further reductions to departmental and school budgets

Community Listening Sessions

The Board and administration also discussed opportunities to gather community feedback regarding the District's financial future and how the District can continue improving communication and engagement with residents.

Community members are invited to attend one of two upcoming listening sessions:

Wednesday, June 17
11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
District Office Conference Room
90 N. East Street

Tuesday, June 23
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Pickerington Public Library – Sycamore Creek Plaza Branch
7861 Refugee Road

These sessions will provide an opportunity for residents to learn more about the District's financial outlook, ask questions, and share feedback regarding future funding considerations and district communications.

If you can’t make it to the Listening Session: CLICK HERE TO FILL OUT A COMMUNITY FEEDBACK FORM. Deadline is July 11, 2026.

WATCH: JUNE 1, 2026 BOARD WORK SESSION

JUNE 1, 2026 BOARD OF EDUCATION SPECIAL MEETING (WORK SESSION) PRESENTATION

Pickerington Local Schools remains committed to transparency as it works through these financial challenges and appreciates the continued engagement of families, staff, and community members.