(Hereford, SD) — The Meade School District is considering closing two rural schools amid a budget shortfall. School Board President Justin Jutting says declining enrollment has increased the district’s general fund deficit, forcing officials to “review how to maintain quality education while ensuring financial stability.” Although some proposals include tax increases and staff reductions, the district is now considering closing Hereford and Atall Elementary Schools. The school district noted the cuts would affect about 20 children, as community members have voiced their disapproval of the idea. Jutting says no official decisions have been made regarding how to deal with the district’s nearly one-point-three-million-dollar deficit.
