INDIANAPOLIS -- Financial problems could mean fewer police patrolling the hallways at Indianapolis Public Schools.

IPS Superintendent Eugene White needs to cut $26 million from the budget, a reduction of approximately 5 percent, 6News' Norman Cox reported.

One of the measures he will recommend at a board retreat this month is a reduction in the district's police force, which now numbers about 75.

IPS spokeswoman Mary Louise Bewley said the cuts to the force would be no more than 20 percent, or about 15 officers, and that nothing final has been determined.

"It'll include a variety of things, from programs that perhaps we have to close to senior, central office staff that might have to be let go. A variety of things are on the table," she said.

White said the cuts are necessary because of reductions in state aid and in revenue from capped property taxes.

But parents 6News talked with outside Harshman Middle School said they were surprised and unhappy to learn about the possible loss of some security forces.

"They should find some other means, because our kids need to be protected at all times," said one.

"Fights will get out of control," predicted another.

If IPS lays off officers, the district may have to call in Indianapolis police more often to handle school crimes, which the city said rarely happens now.

Department spokesman Sgt. Matt Mount said it's too early to discuss the idea, but that the department would be willing to talk about it if IPS feels it needs help.

The district's budget talks had been scheduled for this weekend, but were canceled Friday due to the snow.