On April 20 of this year, a law passed in the 2023 legislative session that all schools are no longer able to charge families for curricular materials. The change was championed by Governor Eric Holcomb, and according to lawmakers was made with Hoosier families in mind. While this may seem like a win for families, the loss in funds has left schools to figure out how to pay the bills those funds would have paid for.

Curricular materials are defined as resources teachers use to help with the student’s learning experience. For example, Chromebooks and lab supplies. 

Superintendent Greg Walker is tasked with determining how the school will deal with this change. While the school will be given $180 million dollars for curricular materials from the State, he believes that it will probably not be enough. 

“If we have to replace Chromebooks, a whole set of those are $150,000 right there,” said Walker. 

Now, Walker will have to figure out how to handle these expenses as they arise during the school year.

“We will adjust if needed. We’ll look at the curriculum and really think about these things. Is it a necessity? Because a lot of times we’ve had things that may be a luxury to have,” said Walker. “So we’ll just have to look. We also want to get the best deal. If we want to get a set of folders for fifth grade, then we’ll shop around and get the best deal on those folders.”

Walker also shared how the school is fortunate to get some revenue from the French Lick Casino. Which will also help with any issues that the school might face with money. In the end, Walker stated that he and the school would have to make it work.