TULSA, Okla. – Tulsa Public Schools is looking for ways to cut at least $12 million from its operating budget, and that might involve closing or consolidating schools.
The district says enrollment has been declining by about 1.6 percent a year and state funding is largely tied to the number of students.
TPS says it has already cut more than $ 5 million in spending over the past two years and found another $1.7 million in potential savings.
Officials say the district is still spending more than it receives from the state and has been using its savings, or fund balance, to cover the gap.
One area getting a close look is elementary schools.
TPS says it has nearly $29,000 available elementary seats, but only about 17,400 students, meaning elementary schools overall are operating at about 60 percent capacity.
The district says 25 of its 45 elementary schools are at or below 60 percent capacity.
TPS says it has not made any decisions about which schools could be affected.
The district is looking at the potential impact on students, teachers, and families before making a recommendation to the school board.
TPS is holding public meetings to get input from teachers, parents, and community members.
The next public meeting is on September 18th from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm at the Education Service Center.
TPS Headquarters is located at 3027 South New Haven Ave.
The district’s chief financial officer is expected to give the school board another financial update on September 21st.
The board has directed the district to find at least $12 million in operating budget reductions.
