MILWAUKEE — Milwaukee Public Schools is proposing capping class sizes and making cuts to the central office as priorities in its 2026–27 budget.
The proposed budget would limit middle school class sizes to 32 students and elementary class sizes to 28 students, with smaller classes in K3-K5. Hard-to-staff schools would get priority hiring, and teacher staffing would only be adjusted in cases where enrollment has declined significantly.
The proposal also invests further in the districtwide implementation of the Literacy Plan.
“Even as we confront significant financial challenges, we are making deliberate choices to protect teaching and learning, invest in our staff, and ensure resources are directed where they are needed most,” Superintendent Dr. Brenda Cassellius said. “This work requires tough decisions, but it also reflects our commitment to equity and transparency, as we build a stronger future for Milwaukee Public Schools.”
MPS would move principals to 12-month contracts, cut staffing in Central Services and freeze non-essential hiring and services. Some educational assistants would transition to 40‑hour roles based on needs for before and after-school safety, special education and literacy support.
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The district also plans to conduct a study on transportation costs, review existing district contracts and seek additional reimbursements for high‑cost special education services.
The latest financial audits for the district show an estimated $46 million budget gap. MPS hopes to reduce that imbalance by June 30 to lessen the need for future cuts.
MPS will present an update to its capital improvement budget, which is a separate fund that cannot be used for ongoing expenses like salaries or benefits, this week.
