Finances

I want to start by recognizing the achievement of our science team at a recent competition, three wrestlers who placed at the state meet, and a swimmer who earned a place at states. While I really like using my blogs to highlight district successes and awards, I believe that it is my responsibility to discuss the governor’s proposed budget and how it will affect our district.

Let me begin by stating that this blog is not a complaint session; I speak from the perspective of a realist. The governor’s budget is what it is. Proposed cuts to the state budget mean that we face a $1.06 million dollar deficit for next year. The Board, my administrators and I have been diligently seeking ways to reduce this deficit. Making up for a thirteen percent cut in our funding—in one year—is a daunting task. The goal is to pare our budget without sacrificing programs that enhance our children’s academics or the curriculum.

All areas are being scrutinized: extra-curricular activities, conferences, out-of-district travel, staff alignment, class size, staff reduction through attrition, activity buses, AmeriCorps workers, paid student workers, technology, building budgets, dual enrollment and maintenance.

One item cut from our budget is the Block Grant money (about $246,000); this loss could affect our full day kindergarten program. I say “could” because no decision has been made as to the continuance of full- vs. half-day kindergarten. The Board has agreed to meet in an executive session to review next year’s proposed budget. It is my hope that the Board will act promptly on decisions affecting current programs, so as to save parents from scrambling at the start of the next school year.

Although this budget dilemma has caused considerable anxiety for all educators, parents, and communities, we at Central Cambria are dealing with it in the best way possible: while it would be great if the problem would just disappear, we know the wiser course of action is to take steps to both prepare for the deficit for next year, and plan for our future in a way that maximizes opportunities for our students.

One final thought: take the time to contact your local legislator to ask for Block Grant monies to be renewed, as well as to rescind the other cuts in the proposed budget. Thank you for supporting Central Cambria and public education.

Dr. D