LA CROSSE, Wis. — The School District of La Crosse will close Lincoln Middle School on Aug. 31, 2023.

The Board of Education decision came Monday night amid significant budget deficits in the district. It’s a decision officials said they did not make lightly or easily.

“The decision was made after two years of gathering input, listening to community input, and hours of deliberation with a focus on maintaining a bright future for the educational environment within our community,” said officials in the release.

The budget deficit, according to officials, was caused by “ongoing underinvestment by the State in public education.”

“Had the State provided school funding equal to inflation over the last fifteen years, schools across the state would have an additional $3,200 in funding per pupil,” the release said.

District officials said this would have meant an additional $19.2 million in annual funding.

However, because there was no adjustment, the school district was facing deficits of $5 million for the 2023-2024 school year, according to officials.

And after looking at projections, officials estimated that number would only continue to grow, rising above $10 million in six years.

The school district had attempted to combat these budget issues by reducing over 40 positions, but it wasn’t enough.

Declining enrollment rates have also affected the district. Officials said there has been 23% reduction in student enrollment since 2001, adding that middle schools have been hit harder. They’re operating at only 47% of capacity.

According to district officials, that led to higher costs and negative impacts on instruction for students.

In light of the decision, they said they plan to consolidate middle schools into two buildings.

“As we navigate the consolidation, we will walk alongside our families and staff to ensure the best possible transition,” district officials said of the change.

The consolidation will allow students to get more staff support and instruction time. It will also eliminate $5 million in maintenance needs.

In addition to closing the middle school, the board also voted for a referendum on the ballot in April. The $60 million referendum would ensure funds are available to make improvements to the remaining middle schools in accessibility, safety and instructional needs.

Funds would be spread over six years, with $6.25 million available in the first year and $10.75 million in the remaining years. This referendum will replace the existing referendum that ends after the 2023-2024 school year.

Officials said the referendum is critical to avoid more budget cuts.

In November, voters had said no to a $194.7 million referendum put forth by district officials. That referendum had aimed to build a new high school as well as move middle schools into the existing high schools, among other things.

As the district closes Lincoln Middle School, officials said they’ll try their best to mitigate effects.

“We are committed to ensuring students discover and develop their talents and abilities to pursue their dreams and aspirations while contributing effectively to the communities in which they live,” said district officials. “We look forward to the continued involvement of our community as we navigate the challenges ahead.”