One of many conversations regarding Nettle Creek Schools’ financial future was held April 28 at Hagerstown Elementary. The nearly three-hour work session saw board members discuss potential maneuvers to reduce $600,000 in expenditures by Dec. 31.
Principals, teachers, staff and school attorney Ron Cross listened as Brian Harmon of Harmon Consulting spoke via video call about the district’s current and coming financial constraints. He emphasized how their decisions now would impact 2027’s budget and praised them for starting the conversations early.
“The sky is not falling for Nettle Creek. However, we do need to deal with the situation,” said Harmon. He reminded them many districts statewide will experience funding cuts as a result of Senate Enrolled Act 1.
Harmon detailed how to configure expenditures for the education and operational funds, and the benefits of having a cash balance on hand in addition to appropriation funds. He also prioritized guaranteed savings rather than hopeful savings. He touched on enrollment, given its direct tie to the education fund. This fund supports all aspects of student learning, from teacher and learning staff salaries to curricular materials.
For the 2024-25 school year, enrollment from October to February dropped from 1,127 to 1,103. For 2025-26, the figures are 1,090 to 1,079. Schaeffer acknowledged no staffing changes were made the past two years. However, given the trend could repeat in 2026-27, staffing reductions could be considered.
As enrollment declines, class size adjustments reducing the number of grade sections could result in five staffing reductions at the elementary level.
Board member Marcie Houghton questioned how this would impact education for students with disabilities who require more one-on-one attention. Elementary principal Belinda Locke said it would have to be approached on a case-by-case basis.
Board member Julie Blaase and president Shaun Lieberman spoke to factors impacting enrollment, from an aging population to the lack of housing and families not having children. Schaeffer suggested obtaining a new demographic study that would address these as well as new factors, such as alternative school options.
The meeting ended with public commentary. Sixth grade teacher Dottie Shedd addressed hearing many changes at the elementary level and wanted to know how the middle and high school would be affected. Schaeffer assured her everything is being considered.
Those possibilities range from utility options and changing student transportation methods, to rightsizing custodial staff and teaching assistants. Athletic director Scott Snodgrass highlighted how sports funding could supplement some losses. Currently, he operates with income from ticket sales and concessions. Snodgrass suggested raising the transportation fee for student-athletes. Hagerstown also hosts the most area tournaments. Sharing that duty could cut costs.
Special education teacher Missy Burns noted that stress levels are rising, and asked that any staffing communications be made before July 1 so teachers could look for other employment if needed.
The board agreed that the sooner they make decisions, the better for everybody.
Blaase reassured that none of them take this lightly as she’s experienced this as a board member and teacher. Houghton echoed the same.
“It’s very difficult, but we’re doing the best we can,” said Haughton.
A work session has been scheduled for Wednesday, May 6, at 6:30 p.m. at 229 N. Sycamore St. The public may attend.
A version of this article will appear in the May 6 2026 print edition of the Western Wayne News.