Stakeholder Input in the Budgeting Process

Superintendent’s response to the following:

What input do the following individuals have in regards to the development of the budget?

Central Office Administrators and Staff – They are the main key players in the development of the budget.

Principals – make recommendations in regards staffing, curriculum, professional    development and materials and supplies needed for instruction.

Site Based Decision Making Committees – these committees take place at the campus level and principals make recommendations in regards to outcomes of their meetings.

District Improvement Committee – are responsible for developing the district improvement plan and work closely with the superintendent in the developmental process.

Teacher Organizations – they are not involved in the budget development process.

Board of Trustees - they work closely with the superintendent and they monitor the budget developmental process.

Dr. Arterbury stated that Superintendent and Board of Trustees need to work in unison and have a relationship of trust.   While the Trustees establish the vision and goals of the district the Superintendent must communicate those goals to all Professional staff.  Working together and having trust in each other is the key. While the Superintendent is responsible for developing the budget; it is obvious that he cannot do it by himself.  He must involve and listen to all stakeholders involved in the education of all students and also assure that the vision and goals set forth by the Board of Trustees is met.   As future Superintendents it is important that we become familiar with all guidelines regarding the budget and we surround ourselves with the right personnel.  These colleagues will assure that all guidelines and goals of the district are met and most important, they will take care of tax payer’s money.