News 12 learned Wednesday that a decision to possibly close David Paterson Elementary School in Hempstead could come as early as next week.

"That is the school currently being discussed...but it has not been definitively decided upon," says a spokesperson for the district.

"I can't understand it, I don't know where the money going. I don't know where it's at, but I feel like it shouldn't stop things that work and the schools work." said Courtney Skelton, a parent of a David Paterson student who spoke with News 12 Wednesday about his concerns that Paterson might close and the district's finances.

News 12 was at a Hempstead Board of Education work study meeting Wednesday, as board members met less than one week after News 12 reported that to close a $30 million gap in next year's budget, there might be job cuts and the David Paterson school could close. Board President Victor Pratt says one of the reasons for the district's financial crisis, Hempstead is giving more money to charter schools than other districts. "We must make do with significantly less per student." said Pratt.

In a statement to News 12 Wednesday, Gordon Tepper, with Gov. Kathy Hochul's office said:

"In the 2021-22 school year, Hempstead received $163.7 million in total formula-based School Aid, including $114.6 million in Foundation Aid. Under Governor Hochul's proposed 2025-2026 budget, Hempstead schools would receive $247.0 million in total aid, including $196.4 million in Foundation Aid -- that’s a massive increase under Governor Hochul."

Hempstead district officials say the increase isn't enough to cover rising costs.

Skelton said he is worried about what the future holds for Hempstead students.

"These are kids are being very productive, I feel like we shouldn't stop that." said Skelton.

A district spokesperson says the board will hold a regular meeting March 19 at 6 p.m. at Alverta B. Gray Schultz Middle School and there will be a budget presentation and a decision about David Paterson Elementary might be made at the meeting.