Tioga School District Prepares for Budget Deficit Amid Declining Oil Revenues

The Tioga School District in North Dakota is facing declining revenues from oil production and flood control. According to Superintendent Paul Olson, the district expects to spend about $11.6 million during the 2026-27 school year while receiving roughly $10.58 million in revenue, resulting in a projected operating deficit of around $1.03 million.

The district's general fund carryover currently totals about $8.4 million and its special reserve fund remains fully funded to help offset years when petroleum and flood control revenues decline. Olson noted that the district's lowest combined total came during the 2016-17 school year, when oil and flood control revenue fell to $828,685.

Olson emphasized that despite the decline in revenue, the district is not in immediate financial trouble due to its built-up reserves. He also addressed a common misconception that state aid would replace lost local revenue if oil production continues to decline.