GILLETT, WI – Despite implementing more than $300,000 in budget reductions, the Gillett School District expects to maintain its current programming and remain financially stable through the upcoming school year.
District Administrator Nathan Hanson says the cuts approved by the district were designed to help bridge a significant budget gap while minimizing the impact on students.
“We will get through next school year. There’s no way around that,” Hanson said. “We should be able to maintain our programming that we’ve had.”
Among the cost-saving measures is a staffing adjustment in the district’s early childhood program. Hanson said a current 4K teacher has agreed to take on additional students following the departure of another teacher, allowing the district to continue offering services while reducing personnel expenses.
District Administrator Nathan Hanson on the 4K Situation.
The district recently approved several budget reduction measures after voters rejected an operational referendum earlier this year. School officials have said the cuts include staffing changes, insurance restructuring, and other cost-saving efforts designed to keep the district financially afloat.
While district leaders believe the reductions will allow Gillett to navigate the 2026-27 school year, discussions are already underway about returning to voters for additional financial support.
“I think we’re definitely leaning in that direction,” Hanson said regarding a potential referendum. “The board’s got until the end of August to make that decision.”
Hanson noted that operational referendums have played a significant role in maintaining district services for more than a decade. He hopes residents will understand the financial challenges facing the district as school leaders evaluate their next steps.
The School Board is expected to continue discussing the district’s long-term financial outlook throughout the summer before deciding whether to place another operational referendum on the November ballot.
Listen to the Full Interview with District Administrator Nathan Hanson here.
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