4/8/25 -- Parkway School District will implement a series of proactive measures in the 2025-26 school year to address budget challenges driven by rising healthcare costs, steep increases in purchased services, the Senior Citizen Tax Freeze, and legislative and economic uncertainties. 

Budget planning for 2025-26 took a number of financial pressures into consideration, including: 

• A 14% increase in healthcare expenses in 2024, which was an additional $5.3 million over the year prior. 
• An 11% increase in purchased services, such as outsourced service providers, professional development, and food services. 
• The Senior Citizen Tax Freeze, which is projected to reduce Parkway revenue by $26 million over 10 years. The impact for 2025-26 will become clearer in the fall. 

To protect filled staff positions, salaries, and student learning and well-being, the district is implementing several short-term budget measures to balance the 2025-26 budget, including: 

• Building and department supply budgets will be reduced.
• Travel and related costs for professional development will be reduced.
• Vacant positions will be budgeted based on historical hiring trends.
• Department and building budget carryover amounts will be reduced.
• Food expenses for district-level meetings will be reduced.

Recognizing that the same financial pressures will likely continue in coming years, Parkway will create an internal task force led by incoming Superintendent Dr. Melissa Schneider to explore long-term solutions for reducing operating expenses while maintaining high-quality education and support for students. 

Despite these challenges, Parkway’s financial position remains strong. The district maintains a balanced budget, AAA bond rating, and a health fund balance built with thoughtful planning and a strategic approach to budgeting. 

“Our work is always about what is good for students and their well-being,” Superintendent Dr. Keith Marty said. “We continue to be proactive with our budget, as well as mindful of the impact spending decisions can have on our students, staff and their families. We must protect our community’s investment and trust while also responding to external circumstances and rising costs that are outside of our control.”