Eaton Schools work to keep budget balanced

Officials with Eaton City Schools are working to plan and prepare a budget that can help the district while they still have the money.

Eaton is like many school districts in the Miami Valley who are trying to save money. They are trying to

Superintendent Brad Neavin said, "We're always asking the question 'how can we be more efficient in our operations.'"

So far, the district has saved nearly $500,000 in several ways. They are not doing it by making changes to student programs or services. School officials said if a staff member leaves, then administrators look to see if that position can be done without replacing the person.

The school is saving on buses and through energy efficiency. A company is helping the district control light usage in buildings and regulate temperatures.

"Instead of the chiller working during the day to cool to 90 degree air or hotter, they work at night to make ice as the air blows across the ice," Neavin said.

He said the district has not had to make any cuts, and hopes to not have to.

The school district does not have a levy on the ballot this fall. They are hoping the cuts and savings will prove to voters that they are being prudent with their money, so when they do have to go to voters, they can get one passed.