Indiana districts plan teaching and support-staff cuts after SEA 1 property-tax reforms, survey finds

Dozens of Indiana public-school superintendents told the Indiana Coalition for Public Education in an August 2026 survey that they expect negative financial impacts from Senate Enrolled Act 1. Respondents said schools would need between 1% and 25% in one-time funding increases to preserve expected services, plus an average 6% in ongoing increases.

Half of respondents said they have already cut support staff, 16% said they will do so soon and 30% are considering it; 46% reported eliminating some teaching roles (rising to 93% when including districts that are considering or plan similar actions). Other measures cited include delayed maintenance, reduced raises, cuts to transportation, electives and field trips, consolidation and potential loss of internships, career pathways or dual-credit offerings. The report also noted fewer districts pursued referendums this year, with 39% of respondents citing lack of community support, and suggested more referendums could appear on ballots in 2028.

Report a correction · Editorial standards · Our source directory

BusinessIndy examines this development and its implications for Indiana businesses and communities using the linked sources.