March 1 - Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools

elow this year’s funding levels.Without the federal money, schools were contemplating cuts of more than 10 percent. Now, they are cautiously optimistic. Butthey warn they will have to make cuts anyway, because while funding may be flat, there are more students.The Olathe district, for example, expects an increase of 375 students or more this fall.“Just holding funding levels at the reduced level of this year is going to require reductions because there are rising operationalcosts that are going to occur over the next two years we’ve got to plan for,” said Olathe Superintendent Pat All.@ For all politics all the time, go to KansasCity.com and click on Prime Buzz.The Star’s Jim Sullinger contributed to this report. To reach David Klepper, call 785-354-1388 or send e-mail to dklepper@kcstar.com.© 2009 Kansas City Star and wire service sources. All Rights Reserved. http://www.kansascity.com