The numbers differ somewhat based on a variety of scenarios, but one thing seems certain — Roanoke City Schools are in for another round of personnel,, program and perhaps even facility cuts for the 2010-2011 fiscal year. The final numbers depend on what happens to state funding sent down from Richmond and revenues produced in Roanoke City, but the mood at Tuesday night’s School Board work session was less than optimistic.
The board watched a budget PowerPoint presentation from assistant superintendent Curt Baker, then discussed the what-if’s. On the table: eight furlough days in the next school year for all employees, fewer teachers and more crowded classrooms, the elimination of preschool programs and all but a minimal summer school program. The fourth grade Spanish class may be bumped to fifth grade and the retirement system may not be funded for several months.
The public was invited to speak since an earlier hearing was sparsely attended due to a snowstorm, and although several dozen showed up, only middle school teacher James Settle made comments. He said there were “some advantages” to the idea proposed by School Board chairman David Carson for furloughs, versus teacher layoffs. “That way no one loses their job,” said Settle. “It’s not life altering like a layoff would be,” added the James Madison educator.
The loss of teacher’s aids and other support personnel since last year has already made this school year “the hardest” of Settle’s career. School superintendent Dr. Rita Bishop reminded the board that 88 positions were cut before the current school year, referring to those as “real legitimate positions.” She added, “I cannot speculate what the final impact will be [of future cuts].”
Bishop said parents were probably not fully aware of what impact last year’s cuts may have had on their children’s education, saying “we probably didn’t make enough noise about it.”
“Declining tax revenues and lower than expected attendance levels have contributed to a loss of funds,” said Baker. He speculated that the General Assembly now in session may look to “dramatically reduce” pension contributions to the Virginia Retirement System as well.
Reducing salaries is “not considered viable,” said Baker. School board member Suzanne Moore noted that city school system salaries already struggle to remain competitive with other Virginia districts. School Board member Jason Bingham praised Roanoke for offering to find more money, calling it “unbelievable,” since the city government has its own budget shortfall woes.
Governor Bob McDonnell’s budget proposals could mean $5-9 million less for Roanoke City Schools, unless the General Assembly modifies that plan, according to Baker. In all, state funding of 10-13 million dollars less than the current year could be in the offing.
No salary increases, perhaps for two straight years, the closing of CITY school and the elimination of 61 preschool positions (plus the pre-K program) are all on the table. The School Board must deliver its proposed budget to City Council by March 15.
The School Board asked Bishop to outline its list when it comes to making cuts. “We really need to have our priorities lined up,” said Todd Putney. Bingham said the board would have to “be very flexible” when considering where to use the knife. Chairman David Carson may have summed it up best: “We’re looking at tough stuff in front of us.”
By Gene Marrano [email protected]
