Thoughts on FY10 Budget Presentation
Just a few preliminary thoughts right after tonight’s budget presentation…
First, a very big thanks to Jeff Young, members of the Central Staff, and all 21 school principals for accepting a wage freeze for FY10. This is a wonderful symbol of their commitment to public education here in Newton as well as a significant sacrifice at a time when many families are worried and struggling to make ends meet.
Second, I had expected far more cuts in the budget this year, and agree with Jeff Young that this is primarily due to a big assumption in the budget of a COLA freeze for all NPS employees. Without this freeze, NPS would be in a far worse situation. Let’s keep our fingers crossed…
Third, I am pleased to see some movement in the budget regarding elements of the strategic plan. Some of these ideas, such as reaching out to local colleges and universities, benefit our students and NPS by providing expertise to our school system at a bargain rate. We also get the chance to see future teachers/staff in action, which can help determine if they should receive an offer to stay in Newton.
I have some personal experience in this, as I graduated from the Co-op MBA Program at Northeastern. I worked in a financial services company performing cost/benefit analyses for six months. I know how valuable that experience was for me, and I was clearly aware that I was being evaluated regarding a future position at that company.
As it the budget stands now, we still are facing cuts in staff, increased class size, reductions in programming, etc. It is a very complex document, and I plan on pouring over it this weekend. I expect to post on this blog after each budget meeting, if not more often during the whole process.