Durham Public Schools is bracing for a significant financial and political crisis. Superintendent Yolanda Lewis warned the board that the district depends on $5 to $6 million per month in federal funding—including child nutrition support—which faces elimination due to executive actions and shifting federal policies. Lewis urged families to contact Representatives Tom Tillis and Ted Budd about the impacts and said the district has hired attorneys to monitor compliance with changing federal requirements, even as the board signals commitment to equity and inclusion programs that may face federal restrictions.
That federal uncertainty collides with a gaping $7.2 million shortfall in the 2025-26 budget, with continuation costs alone requiring $7.96 million just to maintain current operations. Finance Director Jeremy Terer explained the crisis stems partly from state funding caps that leave over 1,000 students with exceptional children needs and nearly 400 English language learners unfunded. The board faces "very very difficult decisions" with no clear path to fund all priorities, and state revenue forecasts show a 2.4 percent decline expected for 2026-27.
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