Keokuk Schools Face Program Cuts

Keokuk, IA – The Keokuk school board might have to make cuts to several programs in next year's budget. The board has yet to finalize the spending plan for next year, but early projections show the district might need to cut $175,000 to keep from spending more than it brings in. The budget increases are in utility costs and employee salaries. The board is considering cutting an elementary school teacher and not replacing a fifth grade band teacher leaving the district. Music boosters told the board that cutting the time young students get to play could lead to more of them giving up on band at a young age. The board will discuss the cuts in greater detail at its June 13 meeting.