THE PROBLEM: A projected shortfall of $12-million in the 2006-07 budget for Pinellas schools caused by rising costs for insurance, fuel and electricity. Compounding the problem is a severe shortage in the district's reserves. In all, officials say as much as $18-million will need to be cut.

WHO'S AFFECTED: That's unclear so far. Layoffs are said to be off the table, leaving a variety of programs that could be eliminated or pared. Cutting back on new hires is another option.

This is cache, read story here