Press Release
Contact:  Arlene Hulten
Date:   May 1st, 2009

 

Lake School Board holds Budget Study Session – 4 Million Dollars in Cuts Required

With budget information just out from the Legislature, the Lake Stevens School Board now knows that revenue cuts will exceed $4 million dollars for the 2009-2010 school year. Coupled with the decreased funding, the district is projecting an enrollment decline of approximately 180 students.

The Board reviewed all programs in the General Fund, which pays for basic education and the day-to-day operations of the schools. Cuts already identified include administrative reductions, certificated and classified staff reductions, and 5% reductions to district and department budgets totaling $2.57 million dollars.

The school board directed Superintendent David Burgess to have the outline for additional $1.5 million in cuts prepared by May 11. Eighty-five percent of the district’s budget provides for employees while the remaining portions pays for non-employee related services and programs. It is expected that additional cuts will come from all areas. The district’s fund balance currently projected for the end of fiscal year is 3.6%; down from the suggested balance of 5%.

The community and staff survey was received by board members and the information will help to guide members as further reductions are decided upon. Board members extended their gratitude to the 460 participants and appreciates community involvement as these difficult decisions are determined.

Information was also provided to the Board on the Capital Projects Budget. This budget is separate from the General Fund Budget and can only be spent on building and construction projects. The revenue in the Capital Project Budget comes mainly from the 2005 $65.5 million dollars bond measure that provided for the building of Cavelero Mid High, renovation of three older elementary schools, modernization of the commons at Lake Stevens High School, and replacement of the track and high school stadium. The last projects currently being completed and planned for are Sunnycrest Elementary, which is slated to be re-opened this fall and Lake Stevens High School Stadium replacement project. It’s important to know that by law, this funding can only be used for the voter approved bond projects and cannot be used to support the needs of the General Fund.
For more information about the Lake Stevens School District budget visit www.lkstevens.wednet.edu or call 425.335.1501.