Jefferson County schools face $188 million budget deficit by 2026

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – The Jefferson County Board of Education is facing a major budget crisis, with leaders warning the district must close a $188 million deficit by the 2026–27 school year.

According to ABC affiliate WHAS 11 News, district financial officers caution that if current spending continues, JCPS could run out of cash by October 2026 — potentially forcing the district to sell off assets just to meet payroll.

The board has until January to review a working budget and until September to approve it. Superintendent Brian Yearwood has created a task force to explore possible spending cuts and tax increases.

Leaders say tough decisions will be required, but their top priority is protecting classrooms, student learning, and teacher salaries.