Superintendent’s Statement

Posted: May 2010

As you know, funding for public education has suffered several reductions over the past year as the State of Kansas has faced revenue shortfalls. This has resulted in more than $500,000 in lost funding for the Spring Hill School District.  However, the 2010 Kansas legislative session recently wrapped up after agreeing on a budget bill that is now awaiting Governor Parkinson’s signature. In order to balance the state’s budget and maintain funding for programs including schools, the bill contained an increase of the statewide sales tax.

The budget bill that passed maintains the current levels of funding per pupil, which is good news for the 2010-11 school year. However, that is an already reduced funding level, which means that the district will continue its efforts to maximize efficiencies and there may be the need to increase revenue to help cover the lost funds. One of the potential cost-saving measures that had been discussed by the Board of Education, which was a modified calendar, will not be implemented for the 2010-11 school year. The calendar will remain as originally adopted, which is similar to this year’s schedule.

In addition, the balanced budget bill is based on enhanced revenues from the tax increase and an improving economy. If revenue falls short of forecasts, the possibility remains that mid-year reductions to school funding might occur.

We are hoping for the best and will keep you updated about state funding for schools. As always, we will work to maintain the highest quality educational experience possible for district students. In addition, we thank you for your support throughout this process.

Sincerely,
Bart
Bart Goering, Ph.D.
Superintendent