As of Thursday, $91,000 has been raised by teachers and community members.
SUTTONS BAY -- The northern Michigan community is helping the Suttons Bay Schools try and stave off a state takeover.
Superintendent Mike Murray says the district planned to get state funding for 760 students, but fell short by 114 students due to a charter school's decision to drop out of Suttons Bay's virtual school. The student funding has left a $400,000 hole in the schools budget.
The school district needs to come up with the money to balance its budget, or the state may step in by sending an emergency financial manager.
After a community meeting about the issue last week, pledges began pouring in to the school. As of Thursday, $91,000 was raised. The teachers of Suttons Bay pledged $55,000 in support, with the rest of the donations coming in through various community organizations and residents.
"Every day we are getting more pledges to help. After the mail comes today, the amount raised may be even higher," said Murray.
School leaders are also asking for help from the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. Superintendent Murray met with the Tribal Council this week. A final decision from the Council is expected in February.
Suttons Bay has already laid off 37 teachers, four secretaries, and the middle school principal. Teachers haven't had a pay increase for three years.
It has also eliminated its transportation system, middle school building, and snow removal service. Its elementary school has eliminated single grades, and the food service has been transferred to Traverse City Area Public Schools.
The state will judge the district on its financial situation on June 30.
