USD 253 Board of Education Approves 2026-27 Budget

EMPORIA, Kan. — The USD 253 Board of Education approved the district’s 2026-27 budget during its meeting Wednesday evening, reflecting the district’s continued efforts to carefully manage resources and contain costs while supporting students and staff.

One of the most significant changes in the new budget is a $4 million reduction in approved net expenditure maximums compared to the previous year. Net expenditure approvals decreased from $106.8 million in 2025-26 to $102.8 million for 2026-27.

The district will also operate with a lower overall mill rate and will not exceed the Revenue Neutral Rate in 2026-2027. Total mills decreased from 57.7 in 2025-26 to 56.5 for 2026-27, a reduction of 1.2 mills. The Supplemental General mill levy decreased from 16.944 to 15.496 mills.

These reductions are the result of extensive cost-containment efforts undertaken by the district over the past year, along with ongoing work to make sure district resources are being used as effectively as possible.

The district was also able to make these reductions without eliminating jobs. Everyone who wanted to continue working in the district was offered a position, and no employees were let go or dismissed as part of the budget process. The district also continues to have open positions for which it is seeking to hire.

“We have worked hard to be responsible stewards of the resources entrusted to us,” said Superintendent Dr. David McGehee. “This budget reflects the collaborative work that has gone into containing costs while continuing to efficiently invest in our students, staff, and schools.“

The district’s budget process included a review of enrollment and funding levels, fund balances, instructional and learning environment needs, and opportunities to appropriately utilize available funding. The district also continues to address a significant $2.75 million shortfall in Special Education State Aid, which it is having to replace with local tax revenues.

The 2026-27 budget will be submitted to the Kansas State Department of Education by September 20 and delivered to Lyon County by October 1.