Newton School Committee Meeting Minutes - February 8, 2010

School Committee Meeting
February 8, 2010
 
Last night’s meeting was very sobering.  There are two main areas to report:  the FY11 budget and elementary space needs.
 
FY11 Budget:  The Superintendent outlined the need for a budget increase of approximately $7.6 million for FY11 as follows:

• $2.5 million for maintenance of effort, including current contract obligations in place (I think this means that it doesn’t include money for a COLA increase for teachers, but it wasn’t specifically stated that way.)
• $3.0 million to cover the expected increased cost of benefits, including a 10% increase in the cost of healthcare
• $2.1 million in special education costs, including an expected increase in costs of out-placements, transportation and legal fees.

 
The allocation from the Mayor is currently expected to be $1.6 million, leaving a $6 million budget gap. 
 
The Ed Center is currently looking at a variety of ways to increase efficiency and reduce costs, including a review of: utility expenses; substitute accounts; outsourcing of food services; reorganization of support and administrative staff; savings from transportations increased fees; and new programs that would bring in revenue.
 
Nevertheless, all these items are expected to amount to approximately $2 million, leaving $4 million in needed additional cuts.  This will lead to inevitable cuts in staff and an increase in class size.  The norm for class size could rise to 24 or 25 children, with a high of up to 28 or 29 children. 
 
One small bit of hope is that the state budget might not dramatically cut aid to cities and towns or Chapter 70 funds (which go directly to education).  Governor Patrick has said he will keep these intact, but this needs to be approved by the State legislature.  Our state representatives expect to notify communities by the end of February about any changes to local aid they expect in their own budget.
 
The Superintendent will present a budget that includes choices and recommendations for how to meet the needs of students while meeting the budget restrictions.  As yet, the Ed Center has not been able to reach the level of cuts necessary.
 
Elementary Space Needs:  A review of the space needs at Burr, Horace-Mann, Mason-Rice and Zervas was presented and discussed.  The additional space will not lead to a reduction in class size, but instead meet the needs of the growing population at these schools.  Several options will still be pursued as outlined in the report—for more, click here:  Elementary Space Needs Report Feb 2010
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Sue Flicop