FY11 Budget Process Begins

Last week (8/18) the process of developing the MCPS operating budget for next year (10-11) took another step forward. It seems like a long way away, but in fact MCPS departments have already begun working on their proposed budgets for the 2010-2011 school year.
As has been true in the last several years, the presidents and executive directors of the three MCPS unions (MCEA, SEIU and MCAAP) serve on the Superintendent's Budget Committee, along with two leaders from the PTA and the Deputy Superintendent (Frieda Lacey) the Chief Operating Officer (Larry Bowers). This group is charged with developing a proposed operating budget which the Superintendent then reviews and submits to the Board of Education. Very few school districts involve the unions (or the PTA) in this process.
Unfortunately, the continuing economic recession means we are likely to face additional budget reductions. Between now and late November, every department in MCPS will submit a proposed budget - including proposed cuts. All offices have been directed to identify 5% budget cuts. All school based budgets are to identify 2% reductions. The Budget Committee will review all the proposed cuts - and expenditures - and will eventually agree on a package to recommend to the Superintendent.
This is not an easy process. No one involved wants to see budget cuts that hurt staff or students. Our challenge is to identify ways to save money that do the least damage.
MCEA encourages our members to submit their ideas. How can we reduce spending in MCPS with minimum impact on staff and students? Submit your ideas in comments to this posting. If we are to protect those things that matter most, we've got to identify how to reduce costs in other ways.

Tom Israel, MCEA Executive Director.