Looming budget cuts are forcing schools to take a look at what programs and services are absolutely necessary.
The state is facing a $350 million budget shortfall in the school aid fund. One option the state is pondering is reducing the state's per pupil funding by about $200.
For a school district like Lansing, that translates into a loss of more than $3 million and more importantly jobs and services.
A reduction in staff could mean more kids in the classroom and less individual attention.
In the Holt School District, budget cuts have increased class size by a few students. But this time around programs such as physical education and the arts could be on the table.
School officials say they are bracing for more than $1 million in cuts.
Some say dipping into the fund balance could be a way to soften the blow from these cuts.
