Topeka ? The Topeka Unified School District is considering closing three elementary schools before school starts this fall to account for possible cuts in state aid.

The Topeka Capital-Journal reports that Larry Robbins, USD 501 director of operations, told board members that the possibility of closing three elementary schools is still on the table as a way to cope with a potential $5.2 million reduction to the district’s budget.

That reduction is likely because of projected cuts in the state base aid per pupil.

Robbins said the closings would mean a potential savings of $1.5 million.

Board members will consider all of the school closing and other budget cutting recommendations during their April 7 meeting.