Pontiac school district leaders have seven days to decide what path they wish to follow to address the district’s financial emergency.
Governor Rick Snyder has officially confirmed his determination that Pontiac schools are in a financial emergency.
“We need to make sure that Pontiac School District can open its doors and be ready for students,” Gov. Snyder said in a written statement, “Our goal here is to set a course that restores financial stability in the district so Pontiac students can get the education they need. I’m looking forward to working with district leaders to determine that path.”
District officials have until August 21st to decide if they want to declare Chapter 9 bankruptcy, ask for an emergency manager, seek a consent decree or seek a new, neutral evaluation process.
Pontiac school district has a $37.7 million deficit. The deficit increased by 53% from 2011 to 2012. Earlier this year, the district had a million dollar default on some bonds.
If an emergency manager is appointed, Pontiac would join Detroit Public Schools, Muskegon Heights Public Schools and the Highland Park School District under direct state oversight.
