Duluth Public Schools outlines $12 million in potential budget cuts

Duluth Public Schools has outlined potential budget cuts totaling $12 million over the next two fiscal years. Superintendent John Magas stated that the district has already reduced its operating budget by $12 million over the last three years, including a 16% reduction in administration costs and the elimination of 48 positions.

The district faces a $5 million budget reduction required for the 2027–28 school year due to state property tax schedules. If a proposed operating levy fails in the November 3rd election, the district may need to eliminate approximately 120 staff positions. If both ballot questions fail, the district plans to implement immediate structural cuts across staffing, class sizes, and operations. However, if the questions pass, the district may be able to avoid severe long-term cuts and potentially restore programs by the 2028–29 school year.