For Immediate Release:   May 2, 2008

 

 

BPS Estimates $35.9 Million Budget Reduction

 

            VIERA—As the legislative session in Tallahassee draws to a close today, Brevard Public Schools officials have a better idea of the severity of the budget reductions required for the 2008-09 school year. Officials estimate that, comparing the July 1, 2007 budget to the anticipated July 1, 2008 budget equates to a $35.9 million reduction; $21.3 million in the operating budget and $14.6 million in the capital budget (please see attachments for details).

            “While this is a serious budget reduction, we are focused on creative solutions, not unproductive complaining,” said Superintendent Dr. Richard A. DiPatri. “We continue to adjust our budget reduction plans, and will finalize recommendations to the School Board for the May 13 and May 27 School Board meetings. This will be addressed in two phases: Phase I on May 13 will involve recommendations to the Board concerning only central office and district level support staff, while Phase II on May 27 will represent the bulk of the reductions, including special programs and other staff, as 80 percent of the district budget is expended on personnel.”

            DiPatri added that protecting the district’s core mission—student instruction—would remain the district’s primary objective. “A school district is only as good as the teachers, support staff and administrators who dedicate their careers to student success, and Brevard is certainly home to many of the best,” DiPatri said. “All of our budget reduction strategies, from freezing open positions to increasing energy conservation efforts, will be designed to minimize the impact on existing staff and students. Protecting our quality instructional programs, and also preserving employee positions to the best of our ability, are our highest priorities.”

ATTACHMENTS:

2008 - 2009 Capital Budget Status

2008 - 2009 Operating Budget Status

                  

-BPS-