The school district hosted two presentations followed by focus groups to kick off what is already forecasted to be a challenging school budget season.
There was a daytime meeting at Stratford School and an evening meeting at the high school. Each meeting began with a 45-minute presentation by Superintendent, Dr. Feirsen, that discussed the 2% tax levy cap, the challenging budget climate, and the economic pressures that the district faces while forming the 2012-2013 school budget.
The presentation was followed by small focus groups facilitated by district administrators and comprised of district personnel, parents and community members. Each focus group discussed a common set of questions, including the best aspects of the school system, areas for improvement in the district, questions about the tax cap, input about where cuts could occur in the schools.
New regulations will force school districts statewide to face challenges like never before. The PTA supports the district’s attempts to broaden the school budget conversation and to continue the dialogue throughout the budget process. The PTA also applauds the parents who heeded the e-blasts and attended one of the focus groups, and highly encourages all parents to be involved in the school budget discussions to both understand the issues as well as to have input and/or voice concerns.
The PTA will continue its efforts to communicate budget information to parents throughout the budget season. Watch for e-blasts and updates on the PTA website. Please feel free to contact VP for Budget, Yvonne Varano at yvarano@gardencitypta.org, with any comments or questions.
Please note the upcoming Board of Education budget meeting dates. All are welcome and encouraged to attend:
Tuesday, February 7th 8:15pm High School - Overview
Tuesday, February 14th 8:15pm High School – Non Instructional/Administration
Tuesday, February 28th 8:15pm High School – Instructional
Tuesday, March 6th 8:15pm High School – Instructional and Wrap Up