An annual conference brings the leaders together at a time when the state is considering major per student cuts.
TRAVERSE CITY -- It's "devastating" news according to K-12 school superintendents. So, an annual conference that brings the school leaders from across the state together to discuss current issues, couldn't come at a better time.
"We're already into our year and now we're going to be asked to cut, in some cases over a million dollars," says executive director of the Michigan Association of School Administrators, William Mayes.
Just a day after a bi-partisan committee voted to cut funding for K-12 schools by $218 dollars per student, northern Michigan superintendents are already preparing for the worst.
"We thought we were in good shape, we had a balanced budget...We don't have that much money in the bank to cover this so we would have to make changed in programs," says Cheboygan Area Schools superintendent, Dan Bauer.
"Some programs will be cut, supplies will be cut and also resources we have for students will be looked at very closely," says Big Rapids Public Schools, superintendent Tom Langdon.
For intermediate school districts the possible slash in funding means a 45% cut of their general funds.
"I'm going to seriously look at what services we'll continue to provide...There certainly is the potential for reductions in staff," says Manistee Intermediate School District superintendent, Charlene Myers.
If passed, the slash in funding could mean drastic cuts in school programs, something superintendents are already planning for.
"I'd probably meet with my administration team and explain the problems, meet with the school board. We definitely would want public input on this," says Bauer.
For education leaders though, it's the timing of the slated cuts that's the most shocking.
"If they were going to cut $218 next year, give us the time to plan for it....Don't drop it on us in the 11th hour when schools already in session," says Bauer.
Lawmakers tell us the per pupil cuts issue could got up for a vote late tonight. We'll also hear from northern Michigan legislators tonight on 7&4 News at 11.
