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The State’s economic forecast and estimated shortfall means a negative impact on funding for
public schools and a reduction in revenues for the Sumner School District. This year our Budget
team worked to develop a 2009-10 budget that supports the primary mission of the District,
maintains safe school learning environments for students and staff, and results in savings that
support quality learning opportunities for all students. A Budget Development Committee,
comprised of staff, students and parents, served in an advisory capacity to the District Budget
team. In anticipation of District budget reductions commensurate to reductions in the state
allocation, a budget savings plan was developed for the remainder of the 2008-09 school year,
as each dollar saved is one less dollar that will be reduced in the 2009-10 budget. Some of the
cost savings measures in place for current and future expenditures include a freeze on out-of-state
travel, a reduction in local travel and conferences, districtwide energy conservation
programs to reduce utility costs, and alternative staffing models to reduce overtime and
substitute pay.
We have developed a balanced budget that supports learning opportunities for all students.
With nearly 72% of Student Achievement funding eliminated by the State Legislature, just
$1,043,000 is available to the District for the 2009-2010 school year. Some programs previously
supported by I-728 cannot be maintained, such as: full-time kindergarten tuition, professional
development specialists, teachers on special assignment, and professional development and
extended learning support for students and teachers. Despite a significant reduction in I-728
funds, we have prioritized funding and resources for teaching and learning. Like previous
budget years, we continue to reduce expenditures in non-education related areas by creating
efficiencies in staffing and economies in services. We have achieved savings in extracurricular
stipends while maintaining opportunities for students. We have made
adjustments to expenditures that reflect lower student enrollment, reductions in
administrative staffing and reduced expenditures. This reflects elimination of a director
position and reduction in teaching staff through attrition driven by lower student enrollment.
Revenue forecasts reflect lower student enrollment, and expenditures reflect rising costs for
utilities, fuel, supplies and staffing costs. To achieve a balanced budget, adjustments were
made on both the expenditures and revenues budgets. Facility rental and other user fees have
been increased to meet actual costs and expanded athletic and activity participation fees will
provide needed revenue to enhance local funding of these programs.
Our budget priority is to deliver our core mission, ensuring the best education for all of our
students. For the 2009-10 school year, our budget supports the following goals:
- Preserve the District’s core mission of quality teaching and learning in classrooms
- Continue compliance with federal mandates of No Child Left Behind, which includes
meeting established student achievement benchmarks and hiring highly qualified
teachers
- Continue support for the Professional Learning Communities initiative and a
commitment to professional development opportunities and programs for all staff
We will continue to closely monitor student enrollment, revenues and expenditures to deliver our
patrons the best return on their investment in public schools.
Dr. Gil Mendoza, Superintendent
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