The Duluth School Board has unanimously approved putting an operating referendum on the November 3 General Election ballot to address a growing budget deficit. For the 2026-27 school year, the School Board approved a budget with a projected $3.9 million deficit, aiming to minimize immediate impacts on students. The second question would provide more operating revenue to help stabilize district finances while leaders continue to right-size operations. Residents will be able to vote on the operating referendum on or before November 3, 2026. Duluth Public Schools will launch a referendum website with more details and will provide additional communications leading up to Election Day.