Desperation Among Northwest Indiana School Superintendents
School superintendents across Northwest Indiana are expressing concern as their districts face a potential financial crisis if their referendums do not pass on November 3. Impacted by Senate Enrolled Act 1, school districts in the state are struggling due to reduced reliance on property taxes for funding operations. Administrators are considering appealing directly to taxpayers to cover essential costs like staffing, transportation, equipment, and extra-curricular activities.
SEA 1’s Implications on School Funding
Signed into law in 2025, SEA 1 reshaped the property tax system, saving many taxpayers up to $300 on property taxes while resulting in a $1.4 billion loss for local governments by 2028. As a result, schools receive less property tax revenue, impacting their operating budgets. Faced with the inability to raise revenues otherwise, Indiana permits schools to propose referendums to increase property taxes.
Referendums in Lake County and Porter County
In Lake County, school districts like Tri-Creek, River Forest, Crown Point, and Whiting have referendums on the ballot, while Porter Township and Union Township Schools in Porter County also seek approval. A study by Indiana Coalition for Public Education (COPE) highlighted that SEA 1 significantly reduced funding for school corporations. Funding reductions are increasing yearly through 2031, and many districts have committed to staffing reductions as a result.
Specific Challenges for School Districts
Tri-Creek School Corporation
Superintendent Andy Anderson is planning to maintain current funding levels by seeking an eight-year property tax increase. He emphasized the potential elimination of bus services if the referendum fails, impacting after-school activities and school staffing.
River Forest Community Schools
Superintendent Kevin Trezak is advocating for the renewal of a 2019 referendum to reduce residents’ tax burdens while avoiding cuts to important services like bus transport.
Crown Point School Corporation
Amid financial pressure, Superintendent Todd Terrill pointed out the shift towards political campaigning to secure funding, necessary to preserve educational opportunities for students.
School City of Whiting
With two referendums on the ballot, Whiting seeks support for necessary operational funds and substantial capital expenditures. Superintendent Dave Verta noted the district’s financial struggle due to limited property tax benefits.
Union Township School Corporation
Superintendent Leigh Barnes spoke of the importance of passing their referendum to retain staff and maintain essential services like transportation and school safety.
Porter Township Schools
Facing potential bus route eliminations and staffing cuts, Superintendent Stacey Schmidt mentioned the district made significant budget cuts but still faces funding challenges.