“The change is the result of an anticipated $1.5 million blow to the district’s budget for the next fiscal year. School leaders says that’s hundreds of thousands of dollars more compared to past years.

“‘We’re at that point where it is going to impact students in the classroom and certainly the teachers that are teaching those kids everyday,’ said Superintendent JK Campbell.

“Campbell blames the growing cuts in state aid, declining enrollment and increasing special education costs.

“In addition to shutting down Winfield Intermediate, he says programs are on the chopping block, some support staff will be laid off and vacant teacher positions won’t be filled.

“‘I’d say it’s getting dire,’ he said.

“For parents like Amber O’Connor, the worst part is knowing that her daughter Emily will be missing out on opportunities that students before her participated in.

“‘They’ve already cut quite a bit. They cut the 6th grade graduation. So they just won’t have that anymore,’ Amber said.”

Read more here: http://www.kake.com/home/headlines/Budget-cuts-mean-bigger-classes-fewer-programs-for-Winfield-students-299790141.html