Milwaukee Public Schools posted a massive $46 million deficit as concerns over education spending have intensified in recent weeks.

MPS officials blame the deficit on a variety of factors, including insufficient state funding, inflation, and excessive spending.

“We know that we need to control spending, especially around transportation costs, increasing nutrition revenue through meal reimbursement (and) monitoring salaries and benefits,” said Nick Sinram, the district’s budget director.

While MPS officials have stated their intention to cut spending, its total debt could spiral out of control and approach half a billion dollars if spending is not significantly reduced in the coming years.

“The district projects a cumulative deficit of $420 million by the end of the 2030-31 school year if it continues on its current trajectory,” Colleston Morgan Jr., who leads City Forward Collective, a nonprofit and advocacy group in Milwaukee, said.

During a committee meeting at the school district’s central office, officials proposed a hiring freeze and a cap on classroom sizes as two different ways to rein in spending.

“These decisions are not easy,” Superintendent Brenda Cassellius wrote of the district’s financial situation. “They reflect our unwavering commitment to putting students first, protecting classrooms, and ensuring the long term wellbeing of Milwaukee Public Schools.”  

The massive budget deficit reflects larger concerns over the education system’s stewardship of taxpayer dollars. (RELATED: Steil Unveils “MEGA Act,” a Sweeping Federal Push for Voter ID, Paper Ballots, and Tighter Election Rules)

Last week, it was revealed that Wisconsin’s Department of Public Instruction spent $369,000 to host a lavish getaway at a water park and resort in Wisconsin.

The scandal has resulted in the Wisconsin legislature delaying further funding to the agency as the expense is investigated. (RELATED: Court Records Detail Open Meetings Law Violations in Elmbrook School Board Appointment)