Mishawaka schools need to cut nearly $5 million in the next two years. Roughly 25 teaching positions will likely be cut; the administration has agreed to pay freezes for 2010; and members of staff have agreed not to take pay increments they would have been scheduled to get.

Tuesday’s meeting, at Hums Elementary in Mishawaka, gave the public a chance to weigh in on other solutions. It was the second meeting in the last 2 weeks for that purpose.

One woman suggested male and female sports teams ride in the same bus to sporting events to save money. Another woman asked whether a middle school needed 3 principals with separate secretaries.

A man suggested the schools apply for stimulus funds to make buildings more efficient. Another woman suggested turning school computers all the way off during the night.

The focus, from school board members to Mishawaka parents, was on the nickel-and-dime solutions as well as big picture changes.

"People are sincere about wanting to improve the situation and we really do appreciate it," said Steven Mills, Mishawaka Schools superintendent.

Mills says the school district is encouraging teachers to take early retirement. Other changes to become more energy efficient are already in effect, he says. The final recommendations go before the school board on March 9. The cost-cutting plan is scheduled for approval at the school board’s March 23rd meeting.