On Tuesday, officials at Wake County's school system learned they will lose about $5.5 million in state funding, and Durham school board member Stephen Martin says Durham's school system is prepared to handle similar cuts if necessary.

"There are savings that you can do in purchasing, and...not filling positions," Martin said.

Martin said he had not gotten official word that Durham will have to make cuts, but he said school leaders have talked about potential shortfalls.

"It's not unexpected with the economy doing what it's doing," Martin said about funding from the state.

Martin said Durham Public Schools stays in contact with state officials about funding on a weekly basis. When asked about possible cuts, Martin said, "It's not surprise."

Martin said he plans to contact Hank Hurd, Durham Schools' Chief Operating Officer on Wednesday morning to discuss possible cutbacks.

Martin said school leaders would discuss cuts at Thursday's board meeting, if necessary. But he said school leaders would not make any budget decisions until its next Administrative Services Committee meeting, which takes place after Thanksgiving.

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1. Durham Public Schools