Buffalo Public Schools are currently projecting a budget deficit of $73.5 million for the second quarter.

BPS Chief Financial Officer Jim Barnes pointed out that the district originally planned for a $83 million deficit and that the school has more than $400 million in reserves to use for coverage.

Barnes says that if the school board stops all unbudgeted requests and controls all unnecessary spending, this projected deficit could decrease to $50 million.

"How we end this year will have a big impact on our budget process for next year, which is looking tough," Barnes said. 

Barnes also said that the district needs to shrink its physical footprint by closing schools in the next few years.

"Schools have to be closed starting in the 2026-27 year," Barnes said. "I'm speaking from a financial perspective - they have to start being closed."

Layoffs are currently not expected.