Educational Insights: March 8, 2010
Dr. Paula Sissel: Superintendent/Elementary Principal
…developing individuals to meet the challenges of a global community
This is the second in a series of articles about school finance and how it relates to this district. Public schools are funded based on needs (students) and resources (taxable land and other variables). Enrollment of formula students at Garden County over the last three years is:
2007-08 266 students
2008-09 267 students
2009-10 253 students
Prediction for 2011-12 246 students
Since this school district includes such a vast land area, the resources are large. Based on the state’s funding formula, fewer students translate to less need. However, costs to provide a high quality education do not go down. Fuel and heating costs, salaries, building and facility maintenance, transportation, and basic operational expenses continue to rise.
Garden County Schools recently received their certified state aid and budget authority from the NE Department of Education for next budget year. Here is a comparison of the current year with next year’s certification:
Years State aid: Budget Authority:
2009-10 $59,029. $4,583,141.
2010-11 $20,942. $4,697,084.
Difference -$38,087. +$ 113,943.
The GOOD NEWS: this district is financially solid, thanks to the diligence of your elected Board of Education, several large grants, and conscientious tax payers! Growing the budget by only approximately $100,000. for next year will be a challenge.
Since the majority of the budget is comprised of salaries, a reduction in force is inevitable. Tightening our belts, without hurting educational programs and course offerings will require careful consideration and proactive planning. How to continue to provide educational excellence and doing what is best for our kids will guide these decisions. Meanwhile, rest easy in knowing that we are committed to becoming more efficient and working harder than ever for the students and patrons in this county.
