By Adam Malmut
Officials say the document is a work in progress and is still in preliminary stages. The total proposed budget figures to be $71.7 million. The current budget is expected to increase 2.9 percent for the 2009-2010 school year.
“3.9 percent will not be the bottom line,” said School Superintendent Al Harper. “We have to be conscious of every penny we spend and I mean that very seriously.”
Harper also said that federal funding will decrease and the result will be a loss of $1.7 million in funds. Officials say it will be very challenging when considering cuts. When asked how the difference will be made up for the loss, Harper said the board is working diligently to cut costs.
School board Director of Business, Robert Geras, said the proposed budget will result in a $90 annual property tax increase for the average home owner. When asked where cuts will be made as the board deliberates over the budget process, Geras said it is too early to tell.
"The board continues to work with the administration to find ways to cut costs without sacrificing the education of our students," said Geras.
While capital funding remains unchanged, Harper said a major goal of the board is to add new technologies to schools while minimizing tax increases. “Installation of new Smart Boards is going to be the key to classroom education,” said Harper. “They are extremely important.”
Along with the addition of new technology, the board said they will upgrade text books for the 2009-2010 school year. The district will use other capital for masonry repairs to school buildings, replacement of roof areas, and necessary electrical service upgrades that will cost approximately $1.2 million.
The district’s additional budget goals include; maintaining and enhancing education, update technology, provide a safe learning environment for students, and provide transportation services.
Board member Frank Ragona said the board will reach out in every form possible. “Every year, especially the passed four years, we have been trying to use every avenue possible to reduce impact to the community,” said Ragona.
When asked if the upcoming education stimulus package will provide funding for teachers salaries, the board agreed that it was too early to know the impact of the stimulus and that it would be difficult to say which programs would receive funding.
