In many schools across the country, crucial resources are becoming scarce. Cuts once starting out as small changes are quickly becoming a large reality as the U.S. Department of Education faces significant funding cuts— A department responsible for many necessities worldwide slashed. 

As the cuts deduct nearly 6 billion dollars nationwide, Kansas faces ~50 million in federal funding cuts. This directly impacts programs like special education, lunch supply, Titles 1-4, with more in the coming future unless these deductions and freezes are reversed.

In direct relation to MHS, changes aren’t too noticeable at this time. Perry McCabe, a USD 418 board member, says there’s more worry for 2026 than there is now. One of his biggest concerns is bonds as they’re already scarce without funding cuts. 

He encourages anyone eligible to vote to take charge, including more push from school staff members and families to protect our rights. 

Teachers express concerns about pay and their programs. Aaron Schooper, who teaches classes like current issues and coaches debate, worries for the protection of his classes or else they could disappear as they can’t run without proper funding. He says this especially targets those vulnerable as it weaponizes important funds to those in need. 

The people need teachers and a community, but this only pushes them away. As a result, enrollment is declining both nationally and locally. People either decide to go to a better funded school or they decide against having children to be in the system in the first place. Not only is this an issue generally, but less enrollment means even less funding federally. Now, the cuts are on top of this. 

Aubrey Herbst, the MHS principal, says she’s conducting teacher stay interviews. These are meant to give staff a free place to express their concerns about their school. Most teachers have wants for a new facility, as do many in the district, which relates back to bonds and general fundings. She says teachers always need more, especially with goals for higher pay. 

In short, many schools nationwide are critically affected by funding cuts and freezes, MHS included. As of now, changes are minimal, but with the upcoming 2026 year it could only worsen. This is why things like bonds are crucial to help provide needed funding for our schools.