Parents and Staff Comment on 2013-14 Budget Inclusions

The following is an updated list of responses received from parents and staff regarding budget suggestions for the 2013-14 school year. Parents and staff are encouraged to continue adding suggestions through April 12th. All comments will be considered by the Sylvan Board of Trustees as they make their final budget decisions. You will continue to find the link to the comment for on the front of the SUSD website: www.sylvan.k12.ca.us 3/26/2013 13:12:37- Certificated Staff "Elementary Counselors Elementary Secretaries K-3 Teachers to reduce class size Director of Student Services" 3/26/2013 13:13:17- Classified Staff Middle School Health Clerks and Discipline clerks to 8 hours/day 3/26/2013 13:16:34- Classified Staff I would like to see some kind of cost of living increase. Every year as a classified employee due to health benefits increasing I see a considerable drop in my salary every year. This year I received $149.99 less in my paycheck as Kaiser went up. 3/26/2013 13:20:36- Certificated Staff "1% COLA 6th grade Science Camp (this can be minimized if parents are given the option of paying for camp ""in full"", or fundraising is allowed.) " 3/26/2013 13:23:18- Certificated Staff 1. K-3 Teachers to reduce class sizes 2. Elementary Secretaries 3. MS Full-time campus security 4. 1 Custodian Alternate 1. Director of Student Services 3/26/2013 13:25:26- Classified Staff I feel having an LMA at each school site would be very beneficial for the students. The libraries are an important hub, safe haven, place to complete school work, and last but not least, a place to read quietly at each school. Children should be able to access the library every day. At the very least, to run an effective teaching library, we should have a certificated librarian for both the elementary and the middle schools. Also, to help offset the rising costs of healthcare, gas, and everything else...all employees should get a cost-of-living raise. For the enrichment of students, art and music teachers should be reinstated in our district. 3/26/2013 13:41:54- Certificated Staff I would like to see a return of services for our students. Elementary Art Elementary Music Librarians 6th grade camp MS sport/club stipends 3/26/2013 13:42:10- Certificated Staff No IPads for 6th grade (yet). We need intervention classes first. More campus supervisors. Increase in wages 3/26/2013 13:58:25- Certificated Staff I am an administrator in the district. My suggestions to the budget (staying within $925,000) are: 1) Counselors 2) Music 3) Art This supports our students and teachers greatly. If I could chose a fourth I would say 4) Director of Student Support. This would support students teachers and administrators. 3/26/2013 14:06:59- Certificated Staff #1 Priority: 1% Cost-of-Living allowance for all employees #2 Priority: Elementary Counselors #3 Priority: 6th grade Outdoor Science Camp 3/26/2013 14:21:54- Certificated Staff 1. 1% cost of living 2. Director of student services 3. Elem Counselor 4. Elem secretary 5.m school club stipends 6. m school sport stipends 7. m school 0.5 campus sup. " 3/26/2013 14:32:19- Certificated Staff Class size reduction grades K-1 and then 2-3 is much needed. It has had a huge trickle effect as they have come to the upper grades lacking key concepts and skills. Art/Music 3/26/2013 14:59:46- Classified Staff 1.5% Increase for employees ($675,000) Director of Student Services ($88,000) Elementary Counselors ($160,00) Total: $923,000 3/26/2013 15:06:08- Certificated Staff I would like to see K-3 class size reductions. This is vital to our continued success and the well being of our students. Julie Quinones first grade at Freedom Elementary 3/26/2013 15:07:01- Parent I am hoping that you will reduce class sizes. The children need more attention than the teacher can give them. 3/26/2013 15:08:56- Classified Staff 1. Eliminate site split-time for secretaries, library media assistants and custodians. 2. Restore Middle School full time campus security, including crosswalk duty to reduce district exposure to lawsuits. 3. Hire 2 more grounds crew members, they are killing themselves trying to keep up with all the needs the 16 sites require. 4. Maintenance staff is currently adequate considering that we have so many new or modernized sites. 1 more entry level maintenance worker would be nice, to replace potential retirees. 5. Music and Art...absolutely! 3/26/2013 16:25:28- Parent Do whatever it takes to fix the way the grass and landscaping looks. It's embarrassing to live across the street from a school that was recently renovated but the grass and shrubs look terrible. This is an area that looks neglected, in my opinion. Not very appealing at all. All of the sites I see while jogging look as bad as the one I live in front of. 3/26/2013 16:38:54- Certificated Staff 1. 1% Cost of living for all employees 2. School counselors 3. Outdoor Ed 3/26/2013 17:35:45- Certificated Staff 1. Class size reduction in first and second grades (they are full-day as opposed to K, which is a half-day; therefore, more opportunity to make a greater impact in learning). 2. After that, bring back art and music. 3/26/2013 18:13:38- Parent Top Priority: K-3 class size reduction Second Priority: (cost unknown, perhaps free?) Eliminate GATE ""cluster class"" model and open more full inclusion GATE classes for students who qualify. 3/26/2013 18:26:42- Classified Staff LMA- we need our libraries open more days for the children , for some children the library is there safe haven. 3/26/2013 18:31:32- Parent 1. Art Teachers for K-5 2. Music Teachers for K-5 3. Smaller class sizes K-5 4. More library availability K-5 5. K-5 PE instructors 3/26/2013 18:54:20- Parent A list of cuts made over the past several years should be made, then allocate the $925,000 in reverse order. Obviously, previous cuts were made using the ""easy"" items first, then gradually moving to more difficult and painful items. Just start with the more recent cuts and restore things working up the list until you've used up the full amount. NO SALARY INCREASES FOR ANYONE UNTIL ALL PROGRAM CONTENT AND SERVICES HAVE BEEN RESTORED TO PREVIOUS LEVELS!!!! 3/26/2013 19:49:35- Parent I agree with these budget suggestions, because the children are the future nation. If students don't get a good educational foundation, what will our country come to?!! California is already way behind in the school system compared to the rest of the country... 3/26/2013 19:52:51- Certificated Staff 1. Elementary counselors 2. Middle School Deans 3. Middle School sports/stipends 4. Campus security 5. Librarians 6. Secretaries 3/26/2013 20:26:20- Parent I would like to see elementary counselors, art and music teachers reinstated in our district. Our youngest students need support with academic, social and emotional skills and the counselors will help them achieve that. Our kids need art and music and both teachers and students will benefit from this addition. 3/26/2013 21:26:16- Parent K-3 to reduce class sizes, full time security 3/26/2013 22:25:46- Parent Hopefully after the superintendent retires there will be a sudden increase in revenue and a thorough investigation 3/26/2013 22:48:23- Parent Of course the cost of living increase is something I think really needs to happen. The staff are working extra hard to provide students with a great education and that has to be acknowledged. My next priority would be in increase by 1 counselor and possibly add 2 music teachers back into the day. I would also suggest that we look at the possibility of reducing some class sizes by adding a few more teachers. If not 10 than at least 5 more. 3/26/2013 23:52:15- Parent Our children would benefit greatly from supplemental education - music, art, and sports. I suggest the music and art elementary teachers, and the middle school sports stipend, and perhaps the 6th grade science camp. 3/27/2013 4:13:48- Parent I would prefer a wider range of opportunities for students rather than a 6th grade science camp. While it may be beneficial only one grade receives this opportunity whereas a lesser costly event may be spread out to all or most students for the cost. My suggestion is to add an aspect of the arts into this category more along the lines of a music or art festival that showcases the educational influence of music and art in a deprived environment. This aspect of education is continually undervalued and the community's ability to reduce exposure to this medium in budget cuts made allowable, yet musicians and artists flourish despite the decline of opportunities. Displaying the youth influence to music and art's growth is integral to the eeducation process and must not be abandoned. 3/27/2013 7:01:57- Parent 1. 1% raise, to keep the district competitive; 2. Elementary music teachers, would this be instruments or vocal?, for all ages, or only 4/5? 3. 6th grade science camp, would this be only for upcoming year? 3/27/2013 7:12:44- Certificated Staff 1% raise-with insurance increases, this Cola is a long time overdue. Elementary music teachers-clarity on if this would be restoring 4th grade instruments or classroom music for all elementary would be helpful. Middle school clubs & sports stipends. Teacher in charge stipends 3/27/2013 7:12:45- Certificated Staff 1% raise-with insurance increases, this Cola is a long time overdue. Elementary music teachers-clarity on if this would be restoring 4th grade instruments or classroom music for all elementary would be helpful. Middle school clubs & sports stipends. Teacher in charge stipends 3/27/2013 7:21:15- Parent 1) Librarians & Library Media Assistants can be a combined employment i.e. employ a Librarian who is universal or crosstrained in both areas. 2) I am not sure how useful the ""6th Gr. Outdoor Science Camp"" is and if it should be included in our budget. 3) 1% Cost-of-Living for all employees should be increased to 3%. 4) What is the purpose of ""Director of Student Services""? 5) Custodians, Ground workers, Maintenance workers should be combined as one employment i.e. universal or person who is skilled, experienced, and trained in all of these areas. 6) One counselor is sufficient. I am total agreement with Elementary Music and Art Teachers and especially K-3 Teachers to reduce class sizes. 3/27/2013 7:54:14- Classified Staff As greedy as it may sound, with the higher medical costs and the lack of raises for many years, I would first vote for a 1% COLA, 2 custodians, 2 grounds and librarians 3/27/2013 8:23:29- Certificated Staff I believe music and art should be back at the elementary schools. I also believe that librarians are very important. The middle school club and sports stipends would help the middle schools out very much. Finally, elementary school counselors are essential to the welfare of our students. If I were to prioritize, I would like to see counselors, music/art, librarians and then stipends. 3/27/2013 8:44:03- Certificated Staff 1. K-3 teachers to reduce class sizes! In the long term this would help our students and teaching staff both. 2. If the first can not happen then I believe that Music and Art teachers should be reinstated. Our students dont all have the chance to do either outside of the school setting. 3/27/2013 9:07:42- Parent I do not see the need for Elementary Counselors. and the cost of living for employees. Most businesses are not giving raises and have not in the last 3 years. 3/27/2013 9:29:34- Classified Staff 2% COLA = 900k, Teacher in charge Stipends= 25K 3/27/2013 9:29:36- Parent My top recommendation is reducing class size. That takes up most of the $925k, so if it's possible maybe only reduce K-2 to free up some additional funds for other things. 3/27/2013 10:44:41- Parent, Certificated Staff Grounds workers are a great idea. They are really stretched thin. I am confident they strive to do a good job but 14 sites is a lot for a skeleton crew to maintain and do well. I am hopeful that a small crew would be assigned to specific sites so they have a sense of ownership and pride in the sites they are responsible for. Cost of Living increase would go a long way to support all staff. It has been some time since the district has been able to offer a raise. All staff members would feel a sense of value and appreciation by being offered this increase. So often we are asked and ask others to do more with less as resources are limited or decreasing. This increase would benefit all employees. An added item that I would like to suggest for consideration is improved, modern phone systems at school sites. A system that would allow voicemail for teachers would increase communication with parents. Teachers could set up a homework line on which they record homework messages, etc. The setting could also be set so that calls are forwarded directly to voicemail so as not to interrupt instruction, etc. This would also facilatate communication with parents as teachers can call directly without having to come to the office to make such calls. Thank you for your consideration! 3/27/2013 11:42:44- Certificated Staff " I would suggest: Elementary Music Teachers: 360,000 Elementary Art Teachers: 400,000 Elementary Counselors: 160,000 3/27/2013 11:43:54- Certificated Staff Class size reduction in K-3 should be the number one priority 3/27/2013 11:53:36- Certificated Staff Ranked from most important: 1. K-3 teachers to reduce class sizes our students need the attention in these grade levels 2. Librarians and Media assistants School need the support of a full time librarian to aid in research for CCSS that require exploratory texts. 3. Full time campus security. Safety is important to all students and parents I understand these totals go above the $950,000 but I hope the board will able to work with these numbers and make the best decision. 3/27/2013 13:00:13- Certificated Staff Cost of living increase to salaries Elementary counselors 6th grade outdoor education Add one more librarian Teachers are hurting financially. With increases to health benefits many salaries are less then they were 5 years ago. Even a small raise says ""we value all that you do"". 3/27/2013 14:37:14- Certificated Staff It would be nice to hire more teachers to lower the classroom numbers again. Learning takes place better when there is a lower ratio of teachers to students. 3/27/2013 14:46:31- Certificated Staff 1- School Nurses 0.5 26,000 2- Elementary Counselors 2 160,000 3- Elementary Secretaries 1 37,000 4- 1% employee raise 600 450,000 5- Director of student svcs 1 88,000 Total: 761,000 3/27/2013 17:20:07- Certificated Staff 1% cost of living for all employees 6th grade Outdoor Science Camp Elementary Music Teachers 3/27/2013 18:19:06- Classified Staff Ground workers and Maintenance workers are needed. And the 1% would be great. Thanks 3/27/2013 19:10:44- Certificated Staff 1. counselors 2. MS clubs and sports stipends 3. MS campus security 4. Cost of living increase 5. custodians 6. Maintenance 3/27/2013 19:12:02- Parent 1. counselors 2. MS clubs 3. MS sports 4. MS campus supervisor 5. custodians 6. Maintenance 3/27/2013 20:31:07- Parent I would like for the board to consider three very important options. The restoration of the K-3 reduced class sizes. My daughter is in the 8th grade at Savage Middle School and she benefited from the 20:1 ratios before the budget cuts. The small class sizes allowed for her to learn in an evironment that allowed the teacher to focus on the students more. I also have a daughter who is 5th grade and she only was able to benefit from the 20:1 ofr Kindergarten and 1st grade. I have seen her classmates struggle over the years and I think if the district can reduce the class sizes in K-3 by even five students from 30-32 to 25-27 or so, that it would make a huge difference. I also think hiring Music and Art teachers is invaluable to our children's education. Sylvan School district has a wonderful reputation for maintaining high academic standards and exposing students to fine arts and music opportunites. I hope the board considers these suggested options. 3/27/2013 21:07:20- Certificated Staff Counselors Deans Stipends Campus Monitor Librarian Thanks 3/28/2013 7:28:00- Parent I REALLY want my kids to experience music and art... It is EXCELLENTE for their little, development brains. 3/28/2013 7:58:04- Classified Staff Elementary Counselors Director of Student Services 6th grade Outdoor Science Camp 3/28/2013 20:30:55- Certificated Staff 1- music teachers 2- art teachers 3- counselors 4- k-3 class size reductions 5- librarians 6- 6th Gr. Outdoor Science Camp 7-Library Media Assistants 3/28/2013 21:07:50- Parent 1. K-3 Teachers to reduce class sizes. I strongly believe that to make the biggest difference and see the best outcomes for our children, we've got to reduce class sizes. Our teachers have been doing a phenomenal job these last few years, trying to reach every student, in classes that are way too large. I commend them for their efforts, but really believe that we need to give our youngest students more one on one time. With smaller class sizes, teachers have an opportunity to intervene before students are left behind their peers. This would benefit teachers in older grades as well, as the disparity in the skill levels of their students would not be so great. 2. Middle School Campus security. I really believe that we have great students in our district. But middle school is a time when they are testing boundaries, trying to figure out who they are. Many times, good students make dumb mistakes because of a momentary lapse in judgement. With more supervision, some of these mistakes can be avoided. This is a budget item that is relatively inexpensive, but can make a big impact on our schools. 3. Elementary Music Teachers/Art Teachers. One of the things that has made Sylvan a great district has been the committment to music and the arts. Research has continued to illustrate the connection between music and art instruction and higher test scores, especially in math. I think that this is another area where money spent will reap great rewards. 4. GATE pull out instruction. Aside from the cluster class at Standiford, which serves a very limited population of students, we put all of the responsibiltiy to serve our brightest kids onto classroom teachers, who are already being asked to do more than is humanly possible. There is federal money available for students who are disadvantaged, but we would do well to challenge our GATE students also. 3/29/2013 14:34:44- Classified Staff My suggestions would be in favor of: 1% Cost-of-Living increase for all employees The remainder should be used to reduce class sizes, by as much as the remaining budget would allow. 6th grade science camp (if possible or w/fund raisers) 3/29/2013 14:44:08- Classified Staff 1. 1% Cost-of-Living for all employees 2. 6th Grade Outdoor Science Camp 3. Remainder for class size reduction 3/29/2013 18:48:01- Parent K-3 teachers to reduce class sizes. I think there are way too many children in classrooms for the teacher to be effective. 3/30/2013 10:17:26 - Parent 1. K-3 Teachers to reduce class sizes 2. elementary art teachers 3. Elementary music teachers 3/30/2013 19:45:13- Parent Elementary Counselors Elementary Music Teachers MS Campus Security Elementary Art Teachers k-3 Class Size Reduction 6th Grade Science Camp (such a memorable experience) I'd really love to see money go back to restore the programs that the students of the district have lost and not go to fill another district office position (Director of Student Services). It was those programs that made the district shine. 3/31/2013 18:01:42- Parent There is no doubt in my mind that there should be a reinstatement of class size reduction. As a parent of three I have seen the difference my children have experienced in their classrooms. My oldest was lucky to be in classes small enough to be able get the help and attention she needed to succeed. My middle child missed a lot of things he got to do in his class of 19 1st graders and kept asking me why there are so many kids in 2nd grade. My youngest has never been in a class of less than 30 students. He may not know the difference, but believe me when I say I do. When I volunteer in his class I see that the teacher spends much more time on discipline and less time being able to talk and explore subjects with students. It seems that they are rushing to present information without being interrupted and there is never enough time for all the questions students have. I wish there was more time for kids to learn to communicate, work together and show creativity with what they have learned and going back to smaller class sizes is the way to do this. 3/31/2013 21:11:50- Parent 1. Elementary art teachers 2. Elementary music teachers 3. 6th grade outdoor science camp 4. Middle school campus security 4/1/2013 8:47:38- Classified Staff Just seeing the list without any information on what the current effect on students and staff is hard to prioritize. From what I know I would suggest the following: In these times counselors seem to be needed. Although art and music teachers are a priority of mine having smaller class sizes would probably be more beneficial to the students. For the well being of the students and schools all schools should have their own secretary rather than sharing and all middle schools should have two full time campus supervisors. Where is the district with custodians does each school have the hours need to have clean scholls for the children? If not then that should be looked at. Knowing that the Director of Student Services is now partially handled by a part-time contract of the previous employee as well as distributed duties to positions with full plates already it appears there is a need for that position. Maybe only 9 teachers are needed for CSR, to bring the total close to the $925,000. Otherwise, if not any of these suggestions, then salary increases if the district is sure it can handle the ongoing cost. 4/1/2013 13:41:03- Certificated Staff Class size reduction needs to be brought back and what about going back to a modified year around schedule. Wasn't that first established to save money? Art and music then need to come back for all students not just those in the middle schools. 4/1/2013 16:30:37- Parent 6th. grade outdoor science camp Library media assistance 1% cost of living for employees 4/2/2013 0:24:41- Classified Staff Here are my priorities: 1. Maintenance Workers 2. 1% COLA for all employees 3. Not on the list: additional technology staff to help Wayne Sidie and Rick Harms. 4/2/2013 9:19:20- Parent I would recommend the following in order of priority: Elementary Music Teachers, Elementary Art Teachers, Grounds workers, Middle School club stipends, Middle School sports stipends which comes to $908,000. Thank you for seeking community input. I am hopeful that our children will benefit from the enrichment activities

Budget Update 2-8-11

Last Tuesday evening our staff shared information with our Board of Trustees regarding the impact of the Governor ' s proposed budget on SUSD. The following is a summary of 11 questions/ comments that were made:

1. I shared that these seem to be the best of times and the worst of times-

Best of Times	Worst of Times
Professional Learning Communities Progress Student Achievement at its highest point Bond money is modernizing our schools We have a new Governor / State Board The Sylvan Spirit is alive and well	Fiscal crisis of great magnitude Fiscal uncertainties like no other year California is in the fiscal basement nationally SUSD has an all-time low baseline of support in funds and staffing

2. Summary of the Governors Budget-

He proposes a flat funding budget that is actually $19 less per ADA than this year

His proposal is contingent on the Legislature and voter approved extension of temporary taxes.

No Mid-year cuts

Flexibility of categorical funding (like Class Size Reduction) for an additional two years.

3. What are our current multiple year projections for SUSD?

This year we will need to develop two budgets. The first will be built on the Governor 's proposed budget. The second will be based on the reduction necessary if the legislature and voters do not approve a temporary tax extension. The County will require us to use the second scenario for planning purposes.

The Governor's budget with tax extensions reduce our budget by $19/ ADA reduction and a total of $140,000. A budget without tax increases will reduce our revenue by an additional $330 / ADA reduction for a total of $2.5 million. It is hoped that this will be our worst case scenario. We may know more about how this is progressing in March, at which time the Governor has asked the Legislature to take action.

Our multiple year projection is attached. Let me know if you have questions or would like help interpreting it.

4. What will we do with the Jobs Bill funding ($1.5 million)?

As required by the intent of the bill, we will save jobs in 2011-12. These will be site level certificated, classified and management positions. We also intend to discuss this with our employee groups.

5. What are our staffing needs relative to student enrollment next year? Will there be further layoffs? What will class sizes look like? Will we need to continue with combination classrooms ?

Our current staffing projections for 2011-12 reveal:

A decrease in 6 grade students at Somerset.

Small class sizes in some of our elementary sites.

A decrease in students 7/8 at Dan Savage.

Our possible Solutions are:

1) reduction of K-5 positions which will result in combination classes.

2) continue with smaller class sizes at some schools (at a cost of approximately $63,000 per FTE equating to at least $300,000).

3) Move classes to other schools. This would increase transportation costs and cause anxiety to students and parents.

At this point in time we have no other choice but to prepare for a worse case scenario, which means moving forth with a reduction of services. While nothing like layoff notices issued in the past, it will still mean 6-8 notices. Some of these notices may be negated based on retirements or resignations.

6. What has been the impact of reduced staffing in libraries, music, art & counselors ?

Library

4 Elementary libraries are open 2.5 days/week

3 Elementary libraries are open 3 days/week

2 Elementary libraries are open 4 days/week

1 Elementary library is open 5 days/week

All Middle School libraries are open 5 days/week

Counselors

One counselor per middle school

No counselors at the elementary schools

Art

With the exception of one or two grades at one or two schools, systematic art instruction utilizing district curriculum is not occurring.

Music

One music teacher per middle school

Two music teachers for 10 elementary schools

Elementary instruction is instrumental music for 5^th grade students only

With the exception of one or two grades at one or two schools, systematic music instruction utilizing district curriculum is not occurring.

7. What has been the impact of reduced staffing in grounds, maintenance, & print shop ?

Routine Repair and Maintenance funding has been cut in half

Grounds and maintenance staffing has been cut in half

Work orders have remained the same

Print shop has been reduced by 40%

8. What has been the impact of reduced staffing in site administration and office staff ?

Crossroads added an instructional facilitator, but eliminated an assistant principal. Next year, when all are on a traditional schedule, there will be close to 900 students on campus at one time. This may require the reinstatement of an assistant principal position.

With the elimination of middle school deans, the school sites administration has taken on additional responsibilities, particularly in special education IEPs, student intervention, and discipline.

Support offered to students, teachers and parents has been impacted at Woodrow, CFB and Sylvan as office staff support has been reduced.

The following chart shows the staffing changes in SUSD over the last four years:

SUPPORT STAFFING CHANGES	2007-08	2008-09	2009-10	2010-11
Number of Schools	13	13	13	13
Total Enrollment (January)	8262	8157	8155	8183
K-5 Music Teachers	8	6	2	2
K-5 Art teachers	4.5	3.5	2	0
K-5 Counselors	2	1	1	0
6-8 Counselors	4	4	3	3
School Psychologists	7	5	5	5
K-5 Librarians	1	0	0	0
6-8 Librarians	3	3	0	0
K-8 Librarian	0	0	1	1
K-5 Library Media Assistants	8	8	8	6.4
6-8 Library Media Assistants	3	3	3	3
Nurses	3.5	3.5	3.5	3.5
Speech Therapists	8.25	8.25	10.25	11.5
Contract Speech Therapist Services	1.79	2.79	1	0
Transportation- drivers & support	8.25	8.75	8.56	8.56
Grounds	6	5	4	3
Maintenance	6	5	4	4
Technology Support	2	2	2	2
Site Custodial	36	36	36	33.5
Elementary Office Staffing	17	17	17	15.55
Middle School Office Staffing	14.25	14.25	14.25	14.25
Campus Supervisors	6	6	5.25	5.25
Resource Officers	1	1	0	0
K-5 Assistant Principals	1	1	1	0
6-8 Assistant Principals / Deans	6	4.5	3	3
Special Ed Admin Support	2	2.5	3	3
District Office Administration	9	8	8	8
District Office Support Staff	14.8	14.8	12.8	11.6

9. How are we fairing in support of technology?

We have added approximately 700 student computers.

All certificated staff have personal workstations and majority of classified employees.

Many staff and student workstations are still running Windows XP.

Enterprise server software (File Sharing, Printing,) are three to four versions older than the current releases.

All Network switch Equipment is six years or older and end of life in terms of hardware vendor.

We are beginning to experience limitations of existing wireless networks at some sites (emphasis on coverage and not density).

As equipment ages, support needs increase.

Maintaining existing capabilities is the current focus.

10 . What have we done, and plan to do, to reduce the special education encroachment?

We have 1249 special education students. Three years ago we had 1120 special education students.

Summary of what we have done to curtail special education costs:

Even with a decrease in Special Education Revenue special education encroachment has slowed.

Year Encroachment Totals Increase from Previous Year

08-09 $6,125,436 19.3%

09-10 $6,541,554 6.79%

10-11 $6,616,576 1.15%

Reduced Non Public speech services from 3 agencies to 0

Reduced staffing in the last two years- 2 psychologists, 2 resource specialists

In 2010-11, we took services back from the county.

Reduced 1 to 1 aides from 38 to 26 (total aide hours from 215 to 151 district wide) in the last 3 years

Identified additional funding sources

Reduced LVN hours by 5 hours district wide

Reduced legal representation from 10 active cases to 0 in the past two years

Saved over $90,000 in SELPA Fee for Service Billing errors since Nov 2009

Summary of our plans to continue to limit special education costs:

Continue to analyze the cost savings of taking back services and programs

Analyze the cost savings of special education transportation

Provide comprehensive training to staff regarding legal issues

Consolidate services, Review current service models

Search for alternative funding sources

Build relationships and trust with our families

Consider additional administrative support

11. Has our energy plan made a difference?

Yes, and this is due to the diligent focus on conservation efforts on the part of our staff.

MID Comparisons show our savings over the last two years.
Yearly Comparison	2008 KWH	2009 KWH		2010 KWH	KWH USE 2008 to 2009	Savings	KWH USE 2009 to 2010	Savings	KWH USE 2008 to 2010
CF BROWN	326,240	300,400		240,800	25,840	$1,872.37	59,600	$4,318.62	$6,190.98
CROSSROADS	460,800	424,400		404,400	36,400	$2,637.54	20,000	$1,449.20	$4,086.74
DAN SAVAGE	827,250	750,750		602,250	76,500	$5,543.19	148,500	$10,760.31	$16,303.50
DISTRICT OFFICE	92,200	94,920		100,240	(2,720)	$(197.09)	(5,320)	$(385.49)	$(582.58)
FREEDOM	432,000	381,600		372,600	50,400	$3,651.98	9,000	$652.14	$4,304.12
GARAGE	71,644	56,368		11,423	15,276	$1,106.90	44,945	$3,256.71	$4,363.61
MARYANN SANDERS	334,800	336,000		262,800	(1,200)	$(86.95)	73,200	$5,304.07	$5,217.12
ORCHARD	715,200	582,962		447,936	132,238	$9,581.97	135,026	$9,783.98	$19,365.95
SHERWOOD	344,640	319,200		268,080	25,440	$1,843.38	51,120	$3,704.16	$5,547.54
SOMERSET	798,384	760,800		664,800	37,584	$2,723.34	96,000	$6,956.16	$9,679.50
STANDIFORD	266,800	239,920		200,960	26,880	$1,947.72	38,960	$2,823.04	$4,770.77
STOCKARD COFFEE	361,280	306,320		226,400	54,960	$3,982.40	79,920	$5,791.00	$9,773.40
SYLVAN	477,120	422,784		245,184	54,336	$3,937.19	177,600	$12,868.90	$16,806.08
SYLVAN RE/CENT KIT	45,520	130,120		418,200	(84,600)	$(6,130.12)	(288,080)	$(20,874.28)	$(27,004.39)
USTACH	1,068,480	1,077,120		722,880	(8,640)	$(626.05)	354,240	$25,668.23	$25,042.18
WOODROW	326,320	265,360		241,530	60,960	$4,417.16	23,830	$1,726.72	$6,143.88
	6,948,678	6,449,024		5,430,483	499,654	$36,205	1,018,541	$73,803	$110,008
						based on		based on
						Dec. 2010		Dec. 2010
						Rates		Rates
Excluding Central Kitchen	6,903,158	6,318,904		5,012,283	584,254	$42,335	1,306,621	$94,678	$137,013

A few others questions were addressed at the meeting. If you have specific questions, please forward them to me so I might use them in my next update.

jhalverson@sylvan.k12.ca.us

Budget Update 1-21-11

The budget season has begun with the unveiling of the Governor’s proposed budget. As most of you already know, Governor Brown has proposed severe cuts to many portions of the budget, with the exception of K-12 education. His rationale for this is that K-12 education has already taken dramatic reductions over the last two years.

You probably also know that his budget is contingent on the passage of a ballot measure to continue temporary taxes that are currently in place. Most of us are highly skeptical of the legislatures’ ability to acquire a 2/3 vote to place this on the June ballot. If it does make it to the ballot, it will take a herculean effort to get the voters to approve the extension of these taxes.

It will be necessary for SUSD to prepare two budgets for the 2010-11 through 2012-13 school years. The first will be as the Governor has proposed and the second will include our projected budget should the tax extension fail. The first will be a tough budget, but doable. The second will see our revenue reduced by an additional $2.5 million per year. SCOE has already informed us that they expect to see a multiple year projection based on NO tax extension and K-12 schools absorbing a larger piece of the State budget deficit.

The Governor’s budget proposal does include extending flexibility for use of categorical funding for another two years (through 2014). This would include a reduction in the penalty for exceeding K-3 class size reduction levels. However, the Governor’s budget did not address the option of a reduced (to 175 days) school year. That flexibility is currently eliminated after next year.

I will attempt to keep you informed of Statewide and local budget progress as it becomes known. I encourage you to send me your questions so I might use them in a Q&A in my updates. Email to: jhalverson@sylvan.k12.ca.us .

Like the cut and paste below, I may send you pieces of information as I get them from various sources. Finally, the news headlines I send out will give you an idea of how other communities are coping with budget crisis related issues across the State.

By the Way . . . Governor Brown Declares Fiscal Emergency

On January 20, 2011, Governor Jerry Brown reaffirmed the fiscal emergency (as authorized by Proposition 58 of 2004) declared by then-Governor Schwarzenegger on December 6, 2010. In his proclamation, Brown notes the more-than $25 billion State Budget deficit and states that "decisive action is required to solve the state's persistent and severe budget problems, continue economic recovery, promote job growth, and preserve public education and the quality of life for all Californians."

In related State Budget news, the Senate and Assembly Budget Subcommittees begin hearings on the Governor's 2011-12 Budget proposals next week. The Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Subcommittee on Education will meet on Monday, January 24, and the Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance will meet on Tuesday, January 25.

Fiscal and Enrollment Update 8-20-10

Here is a quick update on fiscal, enrollment, and layoff related issues in the Sylvan Union School District.

Budget Update

As you probably know, there is little movement in Sacramento regarding the State budget. The Democrats have developed a budget that will not be approved by the Republicans or the Governor. It is predicted the expected standoff will go on for weeks.

The good news of Federal money to save jobs may be coming our way in the next few weeks. Exactly how much and when is still unknown. The money is supposed to be used only for saving site level teachers, administrators and classified staff. The funding is one time and must be spent by September 2012. I will update you as we learn more.

The County has approved our budget for this year and the following two years. The good news is that, although we are in deficit spending all three years, we have a budget that will retain the 3% required contingency by the end of the 2012-13 school year. The bad news is that will need to reduce our expenditures by another 8.8 million in the next two years based on the Governor’s May Revision.

We reduced our budget by just under 5 million for this year. While it is not precise, you can link (links to the right) to the summary of reductions made for this year. This chart also compares the reductions made the previous two years as well.

We all remain hopeful that the economy will improve and funding will be restored for public education again.

Enrollment Update

Our enrollment is fairly stable as compared to last year and that is good news. Now that our students are all back we can do a little comparison to previous years. The chart below shows the end of the first week of school for traditional as a comparison point.

Enrollment Comparisons
	2010	2009	2008	2007
C.F. BROWN	416	401	461	460
SHERWOOD	516	494	445	492
SOMERSET	871	925	950	1028
STANDIFORD	473	454	458	477
STOCKARD COFFEE	478	469	470	497
SYLVAN	315	326	375	381
WOODROW	395	389	439	500
USTACH	931	928	939	900
ORCHARD	479	504	504	534
FREEDOM	697	639	560	514
SAVAGE	1037	1103	1145	1057
SANDERS	657	649	629	587
CROSSROADS	860	845	831	794
TOTAL	8125	8126	8206	8221

As most of you know, our class sizes in the primary grades are significantly higher than last year. This is a direct result of the layoffs. Our K-5 enrollment and average class sizes, as of today, are as follows:

Totals		Totals		Averages
K		882		28.5
1		806		29.9
2		894		27.9
3		833		27.8
4		856		29.5
5		867		29.9
TOTAL		5138		28.9

If you are interested in seeing actual class by class comparisons for K-5, I have posted a PDF document on this blog to the right.

Because we have reached our maximum in some grade levels and at some schools, we have begun overflowing students between schools. An additional kindergarten teacher has been hired at Standiford to deal with unanticipated grown in that area.

Layoff Update

The status of our layoffs is as follows:

Certificated:

1. By May 21^st, 50 positions received final layoff notices.
2. By June 10^th, 31.6 FTE layoffs were rescinded. This was a result of retirements (13), resignations, transfers to admin or IF positions, or granted leaves. In addition, a furlough day agreement was reached allowing a number of positions to be saved for the 2010-11 school year.
3. There are still 35 individuals on our layoff list, 19 from 2009-10 layoffs and 16 from 2008-9 layoffs.
4. From this layoff list, 7 teachers have been hired in supplemental (temporary) positions and 5 teachers (that we know of) have taken positions in other districts.

Classified:

1. By June 1^st, 12 positions or just over 10 FTE positions received final layoff notices.
2. By July, the FTE layoff list reduced to 4.37 FTE due to CSEA’s agreement to freeze salary steps and save jobs.

I encourage your questions that have not been addressed by this update. I will attempt to respond to you personally and/or include your questions in my next update.

I thank you all for your tremendous spirit and commitment to the students and your colleagues. We still remain the best and highest achieving district in our area. In spite of our economic challenges, I am confident in you all and applaud your energy and passion for serving our educational community and children.