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2011-2012 Budget Introduction
Having faced the challenge of shortfall of over $4 million in the
2009-2010 budget and a $4.7 million loss in 2010-2011, the prospects for
cuts in the 2011-2012 budget were not encouraging. News from Richmond
indicated that Pittsylvania County Schools could be facing budget cuts
between nearly one-half million dollars to over three and one-half million
dollars.
Fortunately, the General Assembly adopted a favorable budget proposal much
like the Senate version. The final implications for Pittsylvania County
Schools include the following:
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An increase in State
revenue over the 2010-2011 budget of $386,371
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An increase in Virginia
Retirement Services expenses of $960,000
The need for additional revenue necessary to balance the budget totaled
$573,629. Add to this number nearly $200,000 to compensate special
education assistants required for identified students with disabilities.
In addition, nearly $1.8 million in Federal Stimulus dollars will no
longer be available after June 30, 2011.
The total budget shortfall facing Pittsylvania County Schools equaled
$2,573,629. However, the United States Congress provided funding in the
form of the Federal Jobs Bill. Pittsylvania County Schools received nearly
$2.4 million in additional one-time revenue for the specific purpose of
providing additional funding for the support of salary for local teachers
and other school-level personnel and related costs at the early childhood,
elementary, and secondary school levels.
This “good news” resulted in a $173,629 shortfall in the 2011-2012 budget.
However, minimum funding support is anticipated from the Pittsylvania
County Board of Supervisors (loss in local revenue of $393,791).
Subsequently, the total reduction in the 2011-2012 budget is expected to
be $567,420.
Reductions necessary to balance the budget include the following:
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Staff reductions
663,061
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Instructional
programs 83,000
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Maintenance/facilities 100,000
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Transportation 232,000
TOTAL
$1,078,061
It is worth noting that
the Pittsylvania County School Board stayed committed to saving jobs,
maintaining quality instructional programs and ensuring the long-term
viability of the organization. In addition to these goals, the school
system was able to make available $510,641 to help defray the rising cost
of health insurance for employees.
Respectfully,
James E. McDaniel
Division Superintendent |
