We can all take pride in the accomplishments of our district and its students. During the State of Our Schools presentations this fall, I reported that our district’s students continue to grow and outperform other districts on the state and national performance levels. This could not have been accomplished without the dedication and commitment of all district employees to the success of our students. Their efforts have made a difference in the lives and futures of the students that we serve.
I also reported that the district has had to deal with a major state budget shortfall to education over the last two years, resulting in the district making $4.5 million in cuts last year. As a result, the district must continue to prepare to make significant budget reductions in order to maintain a balanced budget, as required by law. These reductions, based on current information, could be as much as $8 million for the 2010-2011 school year. Indications are coming from Sacramento that when the Governor proposes the 2010-2011 state budget this month, there will still be multi-billion dollar deficits and most likely continued under funding of public schools. The budget picture could worsen.
During the next six months, the Board of Education will be studying potential revenue enhancements and budget reductions. Examples of these include: a new parcel tax to offset a portion of this shortfall; reduction in the school year by five days; increases in class size at all grade levels; additional positions being cut at the district office and school sites; additional energy and utilities conservation; fewer summer school class offerings and reductions of support staff such as librarians, nurses, counselors, and classroom aides
The board and district administration take their fiduciary and financial responsibilities seriously and will be making decisions in the best overall interest of the students, parents, community, and staff in preparation of the 2010-2011 budget. You are encouraged to attend board meetings and budget presentations to learn more about the impact of the state’s funding shortfall on the district’s budget. The schedule of board meetings can be found on the district web site and specific budget materials can be found at http://www.smmusd.org/fiscal/0910BudgetInfo.html.
Preserving strong educational programs and minimizing layoffs continues to be a high priority of the Board of Education.
Tim Cuneo, superintendent
Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District