ELK RAPIDS -- An Antrim County school community is taking a close look at programs as it tries to balance a nearly one million dollar deficit.

School board members are discussing fifteen different programs and their priorities, including transportation, athletics, food service and alternative education.

The district is facing a $999,000 dollar deficit for the next school year.

Enrollment has remained steady but the superintendent says lower state funding and higher medical and retirement costs are creating the problem.

The next step in the process is another special budget meeting with the school board.  It will take place Monday, May 3 at the Elk Rapids High School.  The meeting begins at 6:00 p.m.