Weekly Message from the Superintendent

Dear Staff and Families,

We have had a wonderful start to 2023 and the winter weather has been kind thus far. In fact, the only clear sign that it is January is that we are moving right along in our annual budget season. Please take some time to refresh your memory and note the meetings that are scheduled between now and when the Board of Education officially votes on the 2023-2024 Operating budget.

The Board of Education and I encourage you to join us on the next leg of the budget journey and share your thoughts and ideas along the way.  We have created a one-sheet overview of the budget as well as compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions.  Both can be found here.

Operating Budget Presentations to the BOE

The budget presentations are scheduled for Tuesday, January 31, at 6:30 p.m.  During this evening, you will have the opportunity to hear more specific information about the budget.  The following is the presentation lineup:

●        Lori Rhodes – School Development

●        Amy Beldotti – Teaching and Learning

●        Michael Fernandes – Student Support Services

●        Kevin McCarthy – Facilities

Board of Education (BOE) Public Hearing

The BOE has scheduled a Budget Public Hearing on Thursday, February 2, 2023. This provides an opportunity for staff, students, families, and community members to speak and share their thoughts about the Superintendent’s proposed Operating Budget.

You must sign up in advance if you want to speak during this public hearing. Please email the Board Secretary if you want to address the BOE. The deadline to sign-up is 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 2, 2023.  If you are unable to attend the zoom BOE Public Hearing, please feel free to email the Board of Education at the following email address.

Please click the following link to register for the BOE public hearing.

BOE Budget Discussion and Debate

The Board of Education has scheduled a special meeting to discuss and debate the Superintendent’s proposed Operating Budget on Tuesday, February 7, 2023.

Please note that the BOE’s goal is to vote on the budget on Tuesday, February 28 during the Regular Board of Education meeting.

City Boards Budget Approval Process

After the BOE approves and adopts the 2023-24 budget it still has many stops to make before it is final. Both the Board of Finance (BOF) and the Board of Representatives (BOR) must also approve the budget. The BOF and BOR can approve the budget as submitted or request cuts.

Stay tuned for updates on dates and times for the City Board hearings and meetings.

Thank you in advance for your support and guidance as we work together to navigate a complex budget session.

Stay Safe and Healthy!

Dr. Tamu Lucero

Superintendent

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