Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) is taking measures to address a projected $100 million budget shortfall for the 2025-26 fiscal year. The district has been facing a consistent gap between its revenue and spending, leading to the depletion of reserves that had previously been used to cover the deficit.
Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier explained the situation during the School Board’s regular meeting on Monday, Nov. 4. “In recent years, we have been covering that gap with reserves, but we no longer have the reserves necessary to continue this practice,” he said.
To begin addressing the financial challenges, the School Board approved several school consolidations, which Dr. Bernier noted would help generate savings for the upcoming year. The approved consolidations include:
- Annie R. Morgan Elementary into Biltmore Elementary
- Kings Trail Elementary into Beauclerc Elementary
- Susie E. Tolbert Elementary into Smart Pope Livingston Elementary
In addition, further consolidations were approved to be completed by the 2026-27 school year:
- George Washington Carver Elementary and Rufus E. Payne Elementary
- Hidden Oaks Elementary and Cedar Hills Elementary
- Don Brewer Elementary and Merrill Road Elementary
District leaders are exploring additional cost-saving measures that will be discussed with the School Board, staff, and the community through upcoming workshops and public town halls.
Dr. Bernier emphasized that, despite the difficult decisions, the district’s focus on student success would remain unchanged. “I’m grateful for the community’s remarkable dedication to our students,” he said. “I look forward to continuing this conversation and hearing their feedback at future events.”
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