Local schools are struggling because there is no state budget.

In Stratford, schools are losing $21 million as a result, the biggest hit in the entire state.

Mayor John Harkins says they should have enough money to keep schools running through the end of the year, but after that, all options are on the table, including taking out a short-term loan.

The superintendent says if money is not secured by then, one or more schools could be closed down in the middle of the year.

Neighboring Bridgeport has already laid off half its reading teachers and some school nurses. But the Stratford superintendent says layoffs alone will not make up for the lost money.