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Kids didn't cause the budget crisis, and at HUSD we're making sure they don't get punished for it.
No matter what happens at the state and federal level as far as funding goes, we will be here for your kids. We will find a way to make sure your child gets the best education possible.
Here are some of the things we are dealing with today at Holtville Unified:
1. The state has not yet passed a budget, but the governor has proposed MAJOR cuts to our schools and our district.
2. The federal government, which provided us some assistance last year in the form of "recovery funds" has not committed to providing us any further funding.
3. Based on the Governor's proposed budget, we must find a way to cover a deficit of approximately $1,115,700
To cover this shortfall, the following funding/program shifts have been approved by the school board:
- We offered a retirement incentive for our teachers. Four teachers took the opportunity to retire. Savings to the district next year ------ $325,565
- We have at least three teachers who will be leaving the district for various reasons. At this point, we will not be filling these positions. Savings - $203,931
- We are shifting funds that would normally be used for specific maintenance projects to the general fund. Savings -- $297,906
- Many of the programs that have been paid out of district funds will now be paid through school site funds. Savings --- $288,298
In addition to the above, the following programs will be impacted:
Adult Education - Only programs paid by Federal Funds will be offered. This means we will continue to offer some language classes, citizenship classes, and job-skills classes.
Summer School - We will only be offering summer school to students eligible for the Migrant Program. This program does not use district funds and is paid for by the Federal Government.
Our commitment to you
We are working hard to make sure the following happens. Absent further cuts from the state, we will continue to provide every program (including the arts and sports) that we currently have. We will continue to provide counseling services, transportation,and outstanding classroom instruction.
Unfortunately, we will have to increase class sizes by 2-3 students to keep every school and program open. Also, if the state cuts much deeper than they already have, we may have to consider shortening the school year 1-5 days. This, of course is not acceptable, but we may have no choice if the state continues to slash the funds needed to educate your child.
When the state budget stabilizes, one of our highest priorities will be to reduce class sizes to where they were two years ago.
If you ever have any questions about the district, our finances or priorities, please do not hesitate to ask!
Thank you.
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Comments left on this blog may or may not be published depending on the appropriateness of their content. Comments may also be turned into questions and addressed as new blog entries. I welcome your input and look forward to your comments. -Jon LeDoux, Superintendent