Welcome back from what we hope was a relaxing and enjoyable spring recess.
UNION UPDATE – BOE BUDGET CUTS
As you know from reading the Superintendent’s March 18th e mail, the District Administration presented two options to cut over $2 million from the CH-UH 2009-2010. Both options reduce teaching positions administrative and non-certificated positions, as well as reductions in non-personnel items.
The first option would cut 29 jobs, 16 of these would be teaching positions. The second option would cut 37.5 positions of which 24.5 are teachers.
Despite that fact that a levy passed in November of 2007, the prospect of lower property tax collections due to foreclosures, and possible future reductions in state funding have created concerns over the district’s budget. In addition, the Board is considering placing a levy on the ballot in 2010 and would prefer to make smaller cuts now rather than Draconian cuts later,
This is unpleasant news; however there are a few things to keep in mind:
- The budget cut scenarios presented to the Board do not take into account upcoming teacher retirements, resignations, and leaves of absence. It is our belief that attrition will minimize the need for layoffs.
- The two options are subject to change and modification by the Board. We will advocate keeping budget reductions as far away as possible from the classroom.
Our Interim Superintendent has included us in meetings to discuss the implications of the proposed cuts, and to hear or ideas and suggestions. We welcome the opportunity to do so.
It is anticipated that the Board will act on the budget at its April 21st meeting. An additional meeting date of April 28th has been proposed if a final decision has not been made by the 21st. Per our negotiated agreement and statute, reductions in force must take place by April 30th.
Needless to say, we will keep you informed.
Fraternally,
Tom Schmida, President