Duluth Public Schools District Reduces Budget by 5 Million Dollars

DULUTH, Minn.– The Duluth Public School District will be reducing their overall budget by 5 million dollars.

There are several reasons for the 2025-2026 school year budget reduction.

The end of federal pandemic relief funding, financial challenges, inflation, and rising special education costs are a few.

Currently, state funds for education have increased 2 -3% each year.

And the cost for educating kids increased around 5% each year.

Superintendent John Magas says, 83 to 85% of their budget is allocated to salaries and benefits.

In November of 2023, voters in Duluth rejected an increase in taxes to fund technology.

“Each year, many districts go in and they’re needing to reduce the amount of money they’re spending. And so, we’re in that particular place. We also have a situation where we had a couple referenda that we’re trying to pass that unfortunately didn’t go through. One of the questions passed, which helped. But one of the questions didn’t. Both times we tried,” explained Duluth Public Schools Superintendent John Magas.

Financial transparency for the public is important for John Magas.

“It’s hard to ask people to do more with less or do the same with less even. But that’s the place we’re in. So that’s why we want to be as transparent as possible. Make sure everything is out there, and make sure any questions are asked, and answered. So, we’re just trying to be super clear,” said Magas.

Budget plan details are available on the district website for anyone to access.