BILLINGS - A failed school levy means Billings' school officials need to eliminate more than $2.6 million dollars from the budget. Superintendent Jack Copps says officials are still discussing potential cuts but when school opens next year there will be some major changes.

"Spring time in education is a lot like Christmas and retail. It's chaotic and there's a lot going on and you just don't know what's going to happen," said Will James Middle School Troy Zickefoose. More than $2.6 million dollars in cuts are looming across the board for School District 2.

Some potential targets are after school programs in grades 6th through 8th and that has one principal concerned. "They're not just talking about football and softball. They're also taking about possible student council activities, music programs," said Zickefoose.

The principal says middle school students benefit tremendously from after school programs, whether its friendships with teammates or just keeping kids off the streets. "It's a very challenging time period and I think its pretty important to have resources and activities wrapped around them to help facilitate that time and that growth," said Zickefoose.

But after school programs aren't the only targets. Several teachers are in jeopardy of losing their jobs. Choir Director Ellie Creek says its not easy to cope with but teachers understand why. "It's difficult and finding a job is always stressful, but it isn't because of problems or issues it's because it's the financial part and that's the way it has to be," said Creek. School officials say the state funding model needs to be changed or these problems will continue every school year for years to come.

District officials are also looking at cutting custodial and administrative positions and eliminating one class period from the schedule.