There have been a number of questions regarding just how(if) we can afford to implement new programs such as the 'Options' program at OHS and Inquiry and STEM in our K-8 schools during these difficult economic times. Simply stated, is this the right time? All of the new programs mentioned above began with special funding that we received from the federal stimulus program known as ARRA (American Recovery and Reconstruction Act). The district chose at that time to utilize those funds, along with existing funds in the capital and staff development budgets to research design and implement educational best practices that supported the changing needs of our learners preparing for the 21st century work place. A simple breakdown of funding sources for these initiatives can be found in the slide presentation on the district website entitled, "Budget Planning: Recommendations for Board Planning" .
Virtually all of the funding needed for research and design were borne by these special funds. Now as we move forward with full implementation, funds for training as well as for room modifications, furniture and fixtures will come from either existing staff development funds and/or capital funds. Using our capital funds to support these programs necessitates establishing priorities in areas such as technology acquisition and building upgrades and repair. These funds cannot be used for staffing purposes and, therefore, are not able to off-set proposed reductions. Staff development funds have been historically reserved for faculty and staff training and, like capital funds, could not be used for staffing purposes. Up through this year, even though districts were given flexibility by the state legislature to use these funds for staffing purposes, we have continued to dedicate their use for training; including leadership and inquiry. The proposed reductions for the coming year, however, do recommend that those funds are to be used for staffing. This is the primary reason for the proposal to reduce the number of student days for one year.
It seems unfair to the majority of the students (who are struggling at the high school with class sizes of 40+) to allow a program like "Options" to continue and not be considered at all for reductions during this budget crisis-as I believe the numbers of students served in this program is small compared to the numbers in regular classroom instruction. Lots of space and funds being used - realize they are coming from other places at this point-but, will they always? And, even if they do-it seems as tho' you're taking from Gifted/Talented program to do other things-what's the difference?
ReplyDeletepwieb-Thanks for your comment. There seems to be two questions in your response. The first one is regarding class size at OHS. Class size is impacted by a number of factors beyond the number of students in our elective courses. The number and kind of courses that are scheduled at the same time as a class with large numbers will also impact class size. So will the 'popularity' of one course over another and the effort of OHS administration to maintain an array of electives for students. We will continue to look at all areas of our curriculum at OHS- including the Options progam order to ensure that classes are balanced throughout the day/year. But some variances in class sizes will remain in the future.
ReplyDeleteThe second question was related to funds for the gifted/talented program. With the changes and enhancements that both 'inquiry' and 'leadership' will bring to our elementary and middle level schools next year, we will continue to be aware of the needs of students with special talents and will be prepared to incorporate appropriate experiences designed to meet the needs of these students.