After months of meetings and planning, the Pella School Board is set to make significant reductions in the district’s general fund over the next two fiscal years, with a final plan to be implemented at the February 5th regular meeting.

On Friday, Superintendent Greg Ebeling detailed his recommended action that would trim $852,000. This would be coupled with 26 early retirements already approved by the Pella School Board that are projected to save $488,730 in spending by 2025-26 and an average of $480,000 per year over the next ten.

A public hearing will be held on Thursday, February 1st at 7 p.m. and broadcast on Pella Dutch Live prior to the February 5th session. This is the time for the community and those impacted by the proposals to speak directly to the board and the superintendent.

Ebeling says the cuts are to the district’s general fund, which is the only money they can spend on staff and administrative salaries. The reductions have been recommended after a dip of nearly 40 students was reported in certified enrollment in the current academic year–a drop Ebeling largely attributes to the implementation of Education Savings Accounts and a few smaller-than-anticipated classes in lower levels in the 140-150 student range, coupled with graduation classes nearing and even topping 200 students.

The budget cuts will be spread over the next two fiscal years, and if approved as is, would put the district back in the black by 2026, even if enrollment drops by another 40 students.