Local districts are eyeing the possibility of more money coming from the state.
Millions of additional dollars could be headed to the state's schools. Governor Dennis Daugaard has recommended a three percent increase in education funding. The Senate passed a bill that would send an additional $6 million in one time money.
Redfield has weathered past education cuts better than some districts. The community has helped by approving opt outs, sending more local money to the school.
In Redfield, a three percent increase in ongoing funding would support classes and programs. Superintendent Randy Joyce says one-time money would not because the district doesn't know if it will be there in the future.
That said, he won't turn away either.
"Any money coming to help in any way, shape or form is very much appreciated," Joyce said. "Just need to qualify that by saying, I think we need to step back and establish some long range sustainable funding for education."
When he looks back at the numbers, Joyce says a three percent increase would get his district back to funding levels of 2008. That's not factoring in the additional one percent increase that would come in the form of one-time money.
Joyce wants to spend one-time money on one-time expenses. In the past the district has used it for staff bonuses.
Joyce would like to see the same happen again if that money comes. He's been in contact with legislators throughout the session and is hopeful it will.
"I would like to think that maybe over the course of time this year's positive end to funding increases in education will be supported in future years as well," Joyce said.
Joyce wants current funding levels higher than they are, even if the proposed increases pass. Still, he says the ongoing and one-time funding increases would help, each serving its own purpose.
Redfield's current opt out ends this summer. The board will ask voters in April to support another one. Thanks to the opt out, the district didn't make cuts a couple years back when the state did.
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