AISD trustees voice funding fears

Albany school board members discussed some budget fears that may become hard realities over the next few years unless state legislators make major changes in school funding.

Trustees talked at length about what they will soon face.

“When you look at our fund balance and our deficit budgets, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out that at this rate, it will only take two years to use up what we have left,” said board president Betsy Parsons. “If the state doesn’t act, it gives you a year to come up with an action plan, which means that it should be addressed immediately.”

Parsons, who will retire from the board in May, added that the expense line item that can make or break a district is salaries.

“When you bring that number down, that usually means that programs have to be cut as well,” she said. “This year is basically gone, so that leaves next year to come up with a plan.”

The board didn’t study actual program cuts or staff reduction but did mention the likelihood of having to face difficult choices in the near future with the understanding that there will be constituents who will be unhappy with whatever is decided.

“Any direction you step is going to affect someone,” commented Robert Montgomery.

The trustees agreed that “every student’s talent should be cultivated,” but small districts are hard-pressed to do that even in the best of circumstances.

“I feel that every teacher we have deserves a raise, but unfortunately we just can’t afford to do that locally,” said Kalico Leech.

Parsons pointed out that there are basically only two ways for a school district to bring in more revenue – increase student numbers or raise taxes.

Ginny Ivy asked about fundraising to retain programs, with an emphasis on reaching outside the community to alumni and others with Albany connections.

“In the last 30 years, many local people have stepped up, and in all honesty, I can’t remember a time I was told no when I asked for something,” Parsons said. “You can’t imagine how gracious people have been.” 

Pam Davis commented that extending a campaign outside the district and trying to take some of the burden off district property owners would probably be viewed positively, especially if local taxes have to be raised.

“Most people don’t understand what kind of tightrope we’re walking, the crisis we’re facing,” said Davis.

Other Business

•Resignations were accepted for veteran teachers Lavelle Vinson and Karen Martin. Both are retiring at the end of the year.

•Superintendent Jonathan Scott reported that 27 candidates applied for the elementary principal’s position, with several interviews scheduled this week.

•Scott stated that a corrective action plan for training and review of policies has been implemented, accepted by TEA, and completed following a parent complaint, but he added that in the process, a “TEA error” had cost the district $3,000+ in legal fees.

•The trustees directed Scott to continue a discussion about the Lone Star Sports Radio contract with owner Rob Matthews.

•AISD’s depository contract with First National Bank was extended for two years.

•No action was taken as the result of a closed session.