• Low revenue limits that have not kept pace with inflation

State-imposed revenue limits (the amount a school district receives per resident student) have not kept pace with inflation (see Fig. 1). Additionally, KM’s revenue limit per student is one of the lowest in Waukesha County and the state, making it increasingly difficult to sustain the quality of education the community has come to expect (see Fig. 2).

Fig. 1 - Actual Revenue vs Revenue With CPI Adjustment

• Rising fixed costs and declining enrollment
- Health insurance costs are dramatically increasing beyond inflation even though the district implemented a high-deductible ($10,000 family plan, $5,000 single plan), consumer-driven plan.
- Fixed costs, which include building maintenance, operations and utilities, continue to increase even when enrollment declines.
- The cost of housing in KM is not comparable with neighboring communities. Affordable housing for families with young children is difficult to find. 

• Waukesha County Per-Pupil State Revenue Limits Disparity

What does this inequality mean to Kettle Moraine Schools?

If KM and the following districts each had 3,500 students:
 - KM's revenue would be $35.5 million
 - Elmbrook's revenue would be $41.5 million
 - New Berlin's revenue would be $40.2 million
 - Menomonee Falls' revenue would be $39.4 million

 
The district has been making reductions and finding efficiencies since 2006. Learn about them here.