5 Ways Schools Can Make the Most Out of Next Year’s Budget

When it comes to planning for next school year’s budget, there’s no time like now. As increasing budget uncertainty looms over K-12 schools nationwide, it is crucial to understand the potential implications of funding changes for your district. We know that past delays have pushed school districts to stretch their resources thin. But from deciding instructional priorities to considering virtual learning, we’re here to share some tips that will help you make the most of every dollar.

Why are school districts facing budget uncertainty nationwide?

Federal Education Funding Instability

Current budget uncertainty is mainly driven by recent instability with the government’s education funds. In July 2025, the presidential administration froze $6.8 billion in federal grants and later released them. The freeze left many states and districts unsure of when and if funds would be disbursed, consequently affecting schools’ plans for supporting educational programs, teacher staffing, and student services.

As the Department of Education continues to be reduced in size, unpredictability increases, and school districts are left guessing. For high-need schools, the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Funds are set to expire in March. The state of Individuals with Disabilities Education Act funds also remains in the air as plans are underway to consolidate seven of IDEA’s grant programs into one allocation. 

Declining Student Enrollment

Another factor contributing to budget uncertainty is the recent slowdown in student enrollment. Between fall 2019 and fall 2023, public school enrollment saw a loss of more than 1.2 million students. This decrease in headcounts affects school districts as aid is awarded on a per-pupil basis. Districts that are seeing significant demographic shifts, lower birth rates, or increased competition from private or charter schools may experience some budget shortfalls this upcoming year.

Rising Costs

As inflation continues to rise on all fronts, operational and staffing costs also begin to reach new highs. Expenses are rising across transportation, utilities, and technology. Schools are especially hit hardest when they struggle to fund teacher staffing. Additionally, the ongoing teacher shortages force school districts to redirect their money toward emergency solutions such as substitutes that do not guarantee quality instruction. 

5 ways school districts can get the most out of next year’s budget

Despite the challenges, your district still has the opportunity to strategically allocate money and resources where they matter most. These are five practical ways that school districts can get the most out of their budget this upcoming year.

1. Budget with change in mind

If the last couple of months have taught us anything, it’s that schools have to be prepared for anything. Change is common and something your district most likely already considers. As things change within your district, state, and the country, reflect them through your budget plans by creating multiple drafts. Consider the different scenarios that may occur and prioritize where you want your money to go in case of that situation. 

2. Adopt flexible staffing models

Abiding by strict staffing structures can limit a district’s ability to adapt to enrollment trends and funding changes. When you expand your staffing models to become more flexible, you allow your school district to scale instructional resources up and down as needed without having to commit to any long-term costs. Instead of hiring long-term substitutes to fill vacancies, schools may instead hire virtual teachers to fill in where needed, when needed. 

3. Reevaluate current spending

When funding is uncertain, a simple yet effective step schools should take to ensure they are making the most out of every dollar is to audit their current spending. Sometimes, schools fall into a routine with programs, subscriptions, and software that they’re paying for. But if certain resources aren’t as effective or utilized as they once were, then it’s time to reduce and move forward. By directing funds toward the most successful of resources, not only do you give your budget more space, but you also increase the quality of your students’ education.

4. Consider virtual teacher staffing

One of the flexible staffing strategies that schools can adopt to be more budget-friendly is virtual teacher staffing. Virtual teachers can be a cost-effective and customizable solution for schools struggling to hire or keep on full-time teachers. Proximity Learning is a live virtual teaching service that connects schools with certified virtual teachers who are qualified to teach the subject or class you need. 

5. Expand course access without needing full-time positions

With a virtual teaching solution like Proximity Learning, schools can maximize their budget by expanding course access without requiring full-time teachers. Say you want to start offering a class on Latin, but hiring a full-time teacher is too expensive and takes too much from your budget for one class. Through Proximity, you can hire a virtual teacher for that one class period if that’s all your school needs.  

Whether you need a teacher for an hour a day or a whole school year, Proximity Learning instructors are there to provide exceptional teaching, no matter the subject. 

Proximity Learning is made for your school district 

While the state of budgets can be uncertain, investing in Proximity Learning guarantees you certified teachers and quality instruction when you need it. We understand the financial pressures school districts across the country are facing. But we also know that as educational leaders, you are prepared to navigate challenges while guaranteeing your students never miss a step in their learning journey. 

Whether your school district needs to fill teacher vacancies, expand courses, or adapt to enrollment changes, Proximity Learning is here for you. We’re a proven solution for schools that have faced these struggles before. Together, we can maximize next year’s budget into something that will change your school for the better. Know your funding is used on something that makes a real impact, and learn about Proximity Learning today.