Budget Crunch

As you are aware, state budget shortfalls for the upcoming fiscal year will have an impact on our school system. The cause of this shortfall is simple: fewer people in North Carolina are buying fewer goods, thus generating 4.7 billion fewer dollars. There has been much contradictory information about the budget cuts, but with the likelihood that the house will pass its most recent budget proposal, the possible outcomes are coming in to focus.

First, the bad news:

Without intervention, our school system stands to lose 28 teachers and 38 support positions. This accounts for approximately 7% of our personnel.

Now, the good news:

We are confident, if budget projections hold true, that we can prevent most of these losses for the 09-10 school year.

Our school system believes firmly that people, not supplies or even buildings, are the heart of an effective school. Even with extreme budget cuts, it is hoped that our school system can preserve most faculty and staff positions by using Title I and Stimulus funds afforded to us by the federal government. This is a year-to-year proposition and not an ideal solution, but could help in the short term. Important in this discussion is the fact that an exact budget has not been passed by the state legislature, and final numbers will likely not be available until less than a month before school starts, so change is possible. While we will lose positions, our best analysis at this point is that job losses should be minimal.

How will saving these jobs help more than just teachers and students? The economy of Columbus County is tied intricately to the schools in Columbus County. Not only is education one of the top employers in the area, but new business and industry looks to the quality of our schools as a primary factor in relocating or starting a new business. In addition, lack of quality, engaging education has typically resulted in higher unemployment, lower productivity, and ultimately more crime. The economy and schools are heavily reliant on each other.

That does not mean that the budget crisis is over. We will be forced to make some tough choices in other areas, and there is always the possibility of further budget cuts before or after the fiscal year begins. The situation may be even more difficult next fiscal year. Every year is crucial in the education of a child, and our focus has to be providing the best possible education for our students now.

Fortunately, our county commissioners were able to keep our local funding maintained at last year’s level. If the revenue situation does not increase, then taxes on all levels will have to increase, even on the local level, just to maintain our present situation. Any citizen who is concerned about these issues should contact the North Carolina Legislature or Governor’s office immediately, as these decisions and the ensuing negotiations to resolve differences are fast approaching. There are tough times ahead for all of us; my aspiration is that we can work together so our children’s future can be as bright as ever.

Please visit our website at www.columbus.k12.nc.us and I invite your comments on my blog at drstrickland.blogspot.com.