By AP
HIGHLAND PARK, MI –
Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder has informed Highland Park schools officials that a financial emergency exists in the district, paving the way for the state to appoint an emergency manager.
The Republican governor announced the decision Thursday, acting on recommendations of a 10-member review team. Snyder said in a statement that the district in the small city partially surrounded by Detroit "faces monumental financial challenges."
Officials also say the district was given a $188,000 advance on scheduled state aide to cover this week's payroll.
The school district faces an $11.3 million budget deficit. It has had an operating deficit in five of the past six fiscal years.
Enrollment has dropped from 3,179 students to 969 during the past five years.
A hearing with the district's school board will be held Tuesday.