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District takes immediate steps to address projected
cuts in state aid
As we all know, these are difficult economic times, and
the forecast for the immediate future offers few silver linings.
The City School District of Albany is preparing to meet
the inevitable fiscal challenges that will come to all school districts
in New York state as a result of the economic downturn facing our state
and nation.
Gov. David Paterson has proposed a $2.6 million mid-year
cut in state aid to our district. While the State Legislature has not
agreed to the proposal at this time, we are taking measures now to
prepare for mid-year funding cuts and the reality that state aid to all
school districts will be negatively impacted next year as a result of
this fiscal crisis.
In essence, the state’s fiscal crisis is becoming our
fiscal crisis.
The district has taken the following immediate steps:
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Frozen the budget in non-essential spending areas
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Re-evaluating all
non-essential staff positions that are vacant
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Re-deploying
existing staff when necessary instead of filling vacant positions
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Eliminating the
use of substitutes in non-essential vacant positions
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Discontinuing
overtime unless it relates to health, safety or emergency
situations.
Generally speaking, “essential” items are expenditures
deemed to be absolutely necessary to operate and maintain schools,
maintain the educational program, preserve property, and assure the
health and safety of all students and staff. In most cases, “essential”
items are mandated by law or regulation.
Contractual items that the district has entered into are
also considered “essential.” We will continue funding “essential” items
this school year.
Unfortunately, the above cost-saving initiatives will not
be enough to cover the projected revenue shortfall this year. We will
continue to evaluate all aspects of our operating budget to find
additional areas for cost savings, both during this fiscal year and
looking ahead to 2009-10.
We appreciate your support and patience during these
difficult times.
Eva C. Joseph, Ed.D.
Superintendent
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