As I am sure you are well aware, we have the task of resolving a $37 million deficit before we can present a balanced budget for 2010-11. But from my view, I have enough trouble trying to really understand how much $1,000,000 is -- so how much is $37 million?
With 92% of our budget going to personnel costs -- that would equate to $34 million in personnel reductions -- if this were to be done proportionally. Looked at another way -- and this is HUGE -- with the $9 million in reductions (from last Monday night) ...if we were to lay off ALL of our valuable classified employees districtwide (we are NOT suggesting this) -- THEN we would be at $37 million. But how would we operate without these and other valuable, critical employees? In similar regard, if we released ALL of of our management/administrative employees, we would be less than 60% of the way to $37 million (we are NOT suggesting this either). The point is, the issue we are facing is HUGE and we are going to have to think differently as to potential resolutions.
We continue to utilize our Budget Advisory Process to review and determine the budget reductions that make the greatest sense (in an insane budget world). It should be noted that the $37 million figure is based on NO more changes from the state. I continue to encourage you to call your local legislators and ask for them to resolve this issue.
Has the suggestion of classified employees working the 4-10's (4 days, 10 hrs.)shift, been brought up? It can be one way to save on personnel costs. Just a thought!
ReplyDeleteThere are so many ways to come up with the shortage of money instead of cutting teachers (the most important asset in EDUCATION). The problem is that most teachers/staff/administration are unwilling too because it will affect them. Unless it took away their job, then many would rally together. Sad.
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