Illinois school leaders are bracing for impending budget cuts from the State of Illinois.

Blue Ridge Schools Superintendent Ryan Peyton, like many other superintendents in the State, is concerned about the impacts on his school from cuts to mandated categorical funding that are typically reimbursed by the State - specifically for transportation. While this may not affect them immediately, he says they will feel it in the long run.

Hiring bus drivers is something that many districts already struggle to accomplish. Cuts would only make it harder for competitive wages to be offered. Peyton notes Blue Ridge's 212-square-mile footprint could be stressed even more to get kids to school with these likely cuts. 

The first-year superintendent shares his frustration over continued funding cuts to things that the State requires districts to provide. Despite that, Peyton says they are committed to adapting to changes, as well as advocating with local lawmakers. 

To keep up with all the latest updates from Blue Ridge Schools, visit blueridge18.org or find the district on Facebook.