Dear Mariposa County Unified School District staff members,
I wanted to share the outcome of our December 17th, 2015 school board meeting where MCUSD’s Chief Business Officer, Norma Dwyer, recommended budget reductions of roughly $400,000. This would result in a reduction effort to align our expenditures with our revenues for the 2016-17 school year.
One of the most important responsibilities of a school board and school district administration is to maintain the district’s fiscal solvency. Over the last two years district and union representatives have worked closely together to bring consecutive salary increases to our hardworking, dedicated employees. I am very proud of the relationships built, as these positive relationships have helped bring these increases. Our district is more competitive and is in a stronger position to recruit and retain employees because of these investments.
The budget reduction process has been difficult. The adjustments are required in the face of diminishing resources, increases in STRS and PERS employer contributions, and future forecasting showing declining ADA. Given these stark realities, we will adjust in the best possible way.
By making the budget adjustments for 2016-17, our district's budget will be in a more stable position in future years. Despite reduction, our educational programs will continue to be strong and responsive to the priorities within our initiatives. Additionally, researching opportunities for revenue sources continues to be a priority for our district.
I appreciate your commitment to all of our students. We have a bright future in front of us.
Warm regards,
Jeff Aranguena
Director of Human Resources and Student Services
https://twitter.com/MrAranguena
