March 13, 2009

Good to Great in a world of economic turmoil; together we can weather these stormy waters

There has been a great deal of media attention placed on local school district budgets for the 2009-2010 school year recently.  The uncertainty and lack of specifics surrounding the state’s budget and flow-through funds for education within the federal stimulus package are causing some school districts to propose significant reductions. Over the past month, we have been closely monitoring developments at the national, state and local levels as we deliberate on our local budget. 

As we prepare the first draft budget that will be presented to the Board of Education later this month, I want to apprise you of our local situation so you have information specific to Hilton and do not reach conclusions based on what is happening in other school systems. This has been a challenging budget season. 

The global recession has adversely impacted our nation, state and local community.  The 2009-10 budget must take this into account and balance the current economic conditions with the needs and commitment we have to our students, community and organization.   With this in mind, our guiding principles in building next year’s budget are as follows: ·       

• Maintain successful programs and initiatives        
• Minimize layoffs        
• Contain local taxes        
• Position ourselves for an uncertain future       
• Use reserves prudently.

The budget that the Board of Education ultimately adopts will strive to reach a balance in addressing these ideals. There are some positive elements in this year’s budget.  Our district’s student enrollment continues to buck the regional trend and remains stable.  This is significant, as our district has become a destination of choice for families in this region. Your collective efforts for excellence in maximizing the potential of each learner has paid dividends as we are currently the third largest district in BOCES 2. 

The previously implemented cost saving measures the past two budget cycles have helped our bottom line.  Lower fuel prices have eased the pressure on expenditures in this year’s budget and the additional anticipated revenue following the FAIR plan sales tax restoration to schools is a critical factor in next year’s budget. On March 24, the Board of Education will be examining a first draft budget and will ultimately approve a final budget in April.  You are welcome to attend Board meetings or follow the budget process on the district website.  More specific information will result from these deliberations. While there are challenges and uncertainties ahead, we must remain focused on meeting the needs of our students and supporting our local community.  Collectively we can weather these stormy waters.

Sincerely, Dave

David Dimbleby, Superintendent of Schools

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