Jul 30, 2025 - Education

Miami-Dade Public Schools predicted a $50 million deficit. It wasn't far off

Sommer Brugal

Illustration of three dollar symbols on a piece of lined paper with a pencil. — Illustration: Shoshana Gordon/Axios

Earlier this year, Miami-Dade County Public School officials braced for a potential shortfall of about $50 million.

Ahead of Wednesday evening's first budget hearing for the district's 2025-26 school year, officials told Axios that the prediction wasn't far off.

Why it matters: They previously had warned that budget shortfalls could lead to major shifts in the district, including job cuts or hindering the growth of programs, like International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement classes.

Yes, but: This year's sharp decline was expected and can be mainly attributed to the sunsetting of federal stimulus funds.

"We've been planning for this year for a long time," district chief financial officer Ron Steiger told Axios. "Our budget is shrinking, but it is expected."

Friction point: Ahead of the school board's 6pm meeting, public education advocates are rallying to demand more transparency and public oversight of charter schools, primarily around finances and curriculum access.

Miami-Dade and districts statewide have seen a decrease in funding because of declining enrollment driven by the state's growing voucher program.

The intrigue: District officials were bracing for an even greater shortfall after the Trump administration halted more than $5 billion in public school funding, including more than $45 million slated for Miami's public schools.

But the Trump administration on Friday announced the release of the funds. On Tuesday, district officials confirmed they had been received.

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Miami-Dade Public Schools predicted a $50 million deficit. It wasn't far off

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