KWWL.com - News & Weather for Waterloo, Dubuque, Cedar Rapids & Iowa City, Iowa | School districts weigh cost saving options

School districts weigh cost saving options

DUBUQUE (KWWL) -- The Dubuque Community Schools need to cut millions from the budget. On Monday night, the superintendent outlined three options; all three involve job loss.

The first cuts 166 full-time positions from administrators to teachers and nurses to paraprofessionals and custodians. It would save around $7.4 million

The second option cuts 188.5 positions (the equivalent of), saving the district around $8.6 million. The most severe cuts are in the third option: Cutting 237 full-time jobs, saving $11.6 million.

These cuts would mean big changes, especially for middle and high schools. Some examples: Middle school teachers covering more than one subject, and high school teachers picking up extra classes.

The board meets in two weeks to vote. Administrators want the board to approve all three options. so they could adjust district cuts even if the state budget changes.

School Board Vice President Mike Brannon says the option with the fewest cuts is most likely as long as the legislature sticks with its current school budget plans.

As far as school budget plans in other cities, Waterloo has no plans to raise taxes.  District leaders are looking at merging buildings, combining programs, reduction of the custodial force and early retirements.

Cedar Rapids wants to raise the levy rate 16%.  Right now, the district charges property owners just under 14%.

Iowa City is looking at a near 15% property tax increase to cover costs.

Cedar Falls is looking at early retirement incentives for the first time in 25 years.

Every district is waiting to see how much they'll get from the state.  Most districts will make final decisions April 12th.  They have to be in to the state by April 15th.

Online Reporter: Jamie Grey