Sound Educational Principles and Sound Business Practices

By Priscilla J. Schreiber

The pillars of education are financial stability, quality teachers, curriculum and programs; and strong community and parent partnerships.

Many districts are experiencing the same budget constraints with the added challenge of declining enrollments, and outside competition. I believe that's a good thing for parents and students; but it will be our responsibility to compete and face those challenges realistically.

We are required to fulfill requirements for mandated programs with unfunded IOU's. We deal with State requirements, that are nonsensical, when the State doesn't meet their obligations to education and then demand that we comply.

I have recently ask that all campus budgets be posted on our district website and will be live in the near future.

You can view those at: http://www.guhsd.net/index.php/component/docman/cat%20view/41-business-services/143-budget-and-financial-information/147-reports-letters-and-overviews/149-budget-reports

Our staff has worked hard to maintain reserves but those have dissipated over the years while we try to keep what we have and not affect too many teachers, staff, and programs.

As for our facilities bond program, which is something we have total local control over, I have the opportunity to bring my construction background and experience to the board, as it is our responsibility to oversee the execution of the bond monies and that they are in line with what we promised the voters. The two bonds have brought much needed expansion, modernization, technological improvements and a huge sense of pride to our community.

I believe we will face greater challenges in the future and by thinking "outside the box" we will be able to meet those challenges and be better for it.