Board agrees to apply for feasibility grant with other districts
At its January 17 meeting, the DCS Board of Education unanimously agreed to participate with Schoharie, Middleburg, Berne-Knox-Westerlo, Jefferson and Cobleskill-Richmondville School Districts in applying for a feasibility grant.
The grant, if awarded, would fund the lion’s share of a study that researches the feasibility of shared services, such as transportation, academics, staffing, special education, central office responsibilities, etc., as well as a potential consolidation among the districts included in the study.
No decisions about shared services or consolidation have been made. The board’s decision only commits the district to applying for the grant. DCS is also considering participating in a feasibility study between the Schalmont and Mohonasen School Districts. Furthermore, the board is planning to meet at the end of January or early February with the Berne-Knox-Westerlo board to also have a conversation about shared services and consolidation feasibility.
“Applying for the grant and having discussions does not mean DCS has committed to anything, it just means we are being proactive in learning as much as we can about future options that are available to us,” explains Superintendent Christine Crowley. “And, given the financial state of the district, it would be irresponsible of us not to apply for the grant and try to take advantage of the financial support it would offer.”
Duanesburg, like many small, rural districts, is facing budgetary challenges. The district’s expenses are rising (e.g., additional mandates, health insurance premiums) and revenues are declining (e.g., reduced state aid, a new statewide tax levy cap). In fact, as the board begins the 2012-13 budget process they are faced with a $1 million deficit as they try to balance the budget.
Such deficits will
continue—and worsen—in future years, explains Business Administrator
Brenda Kane.
As a result, school officials are starting early to discuss some of the future options that can be explored, and they want the community to join them to hear more and get involved.
The district is hosting a Long-Term Planning Forum on Tuesday, Jan. 24, from 6 to 8 p.m. in the High School Multi Occupational (MOCC) Room where attendees will hear more about the financial state of the district, what’s at stake for students and the community and have the opportunity to participate in small-group discussions about the future of the Duanesburg School District.
To properly arrange for small-group discussions, your RSVP is appreciated. Please contact Jeanne Beach in the district office at 895-5350, ext. 241, or e-mail jbeach@duanesburg.org to let her know you will be attending.