The Meade 46-1 School Board held a special meeting Tuesday night to gather public input on its 2026 financial plan, aimed at closing a nearly $1.25 million budget gap driven by declining enrollment.
Superintendent Wayne Wormstadt outlined several proposals, including closing Atall and Hereford rural schools, relocating Whitewood 5th graders to Sturgis, and implementing a $350,000 tax increase. The potential closures and student relocation drew significant public feedback during the five-hour meeting.
Wormstadt noted that if those measures aren’t approved, alternative solutions will be needed. A tax opt-out remains on the table, though it would require 60% voter approval if referred.
No action was taken at the meeting. The board is expected to decide on the school closures and Whitewood plan by early December, with other budget decisions to follow in 2026.
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