Panther Pitch February 2025

The vision of the Creston C.S.D. is to provide the foundation for students to become lifelong

learners and positive, confident, and compassionate citizens.

Dear Panther Partners:

Last month, I shared the State of the District, highlighting the academic success of our students and the financial condition of the district. The strength of our schools is the direct result of dedicated staff members who go above and beyond each day to engage students in meaningful learning. When that commitment is paired with strong parent and community support, it creates the foundation necessary to uphold the Public Education Promise.

Our staff is resilient. They show up every day determined to make a difference in the life of a child, regardless of the challenges we face. I am privileged to observe them in action, supporting each student as if they were their own. While public education has increasingly become a lightning rod, our educators remain focused on what matters most — creating opportunity and a level playing field for every child. At Creston Community, we believe in a simple but powerful truth: all children matter, and every staff member contributes to their success. Our team supports the whole child, ensuring students feel connected, valued, and encouraged to grow.

The district is also finalizing budget projections and potential adjustments for fiscal year 2027. Enrollment is the primary driver of a school district’s financial health. The equation is straightforward: fewer students result in fewer financial resources. Over the past several years, enrollment has declined by an average of 44 students per year, or approximately 3.9% annually. This trend reflects larger graduating classes (around 130 students) compared to smaller incoming kindergarten cohorts (around 80 students).

As a result, the district is projecting an estimated budget deficit of $888,862. Administration has conducted a comprehensive review of operations and identified approximately $638,842 in potential adjustments, reducing the projected deficit to roughly $250,020. Balancing a budget is never easy, and we are being thoughtful and strategic to minimize the impact on students, staff, and educational programs. Additional details regarding budget projections are available on the district’s website, and the school board will consider proposals at its regular March meeting.

In addition to budget planning, the school board will establish the district levy that impacts local taxpayers. This decision requires careful consideration of both educational needs and taxpayer impact. While our academic performance ranks near the top compared to neighboring districts, our district tax rate of $11.77 remains the lowest among those same districts.

I am proud of our students, staff, and schools and their continued commitment to fulfilling the Public Education Promise — even in challenging times. Thank you for your trust, partnership, and support. Together, we will continue ensuring every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.

Creston Cares,

Deron Stender

Superintendent

Web: crestonschools.org

Twitter: @CCSD_Panthers

Facebook: Creston-Panthers