Budget cuts planned for 2016-17 in Hazelwood schools will eliminate band and orchestra in elementary school during the school day and cut time in gym class in half for most of those schools as well, union leaders say.

The Hazelwood School Board has approved the plan in response to a projected $12.7 million budget deficit for the 2016-17 school year. When comparing 2014-15 revenue raised from property taxes, there was $15.7 million less than what was collected in 2008-09, which is one reason for the shortfall, district officials say.

A news release also pointed to teacher and staff raises over the last several years as also contributing to the shortfall.

The release detailed cuts, including 13 physical education teachers at elementary and high schools and four band/orchestra positions at elementary schools, although the union had posted information earlier saying there were as many as 28 positions eliminated in those areas. Custodial staff will be reduced by 25 percent.