Survey: District 279 Athletics, Mentor Programs Favored for Budget Cuts

Through a survey distributed by Osseo Area Schools, board members are slowly getting an idea of where $11 million in budget cuts should be made over the next two years.

Osseo Area Schools reports that roughly 1,500 people completed the survey between Dec. 19 and Jan. 13, and about half of the people were Osseo Area Schools parents.

According to survey results, most people care the most about keeping high-quality teaching staff, arts programs and small class sizes.

When it comes to looking at areas to cut dollars, 59 percent said that they’d be willing to see cuts made to the Autonomous Learner Program and Mentor Connection programs. Forty four percent said that they’d be willing to see cuts made to high school athletics. Only 22 percent said they’d be willing to see cuts made to the district’s music or arts programs.      

If cuts were to be made to athletic programs, 59 percent of the participants said that eliminating transportation to in-district competitions would be best.

While the survey responses provide a snapshot of public and staff opinion, school board members want to continue to collect feedback.

On Osseo Area Schools will host the first of three community forums where residents can provide input on the district’s budget reduction proposals.

During each community forum,  the school board will give a presentation and then allow the public to provide ideas surrounding budget cuts.

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Do you have feedback for the district, but can’t attend the forum? You can email your comments to WeListen@district279.org. All feedback will be shared with School Board members.