The proposed budget does not eliminate any current academic programs in a year when the district faced elevated costs in many areas. An increase in state aid was countered by significant increases in areas such as charter school costs, benefits, and debt service.

The district received a state aid increase of $9.6 million. However, more than half of that increase was consumed by a $5.59 million increase in charter school costs. Debt service payments increased $3.44 million, and benefits accounted for a $1.52 million increase. In all, non-negotiable increases are projected to be more than $14 million. In light of the district’s financial situation, the Board of Education made some reductions from the current budget, trimmed the first draft of the 2007-08 budget, and arrived at a 6.89 percent tax levy increase in a proposed budget that does not eliminate any current academic offerings.

“Further reductions would likely have taken away from the improvements we are making to the academic program,” Board of Education President Teneka Frost said. “The Board realizes there is financial pressure on the district and its taxpayers. At the same time, we believe it is important to give our community an opportunity to decide on a budget that is responsible to our students' needs and the needs of this community. We believe this budget, with its level of investment in programs for all students, maintains our commitment to moving forward in addressing the academic challenges we face.”