News

The School Budget: 2005-06 Budget Information
Commentary from MSAD 15 Superintendent Victoria Burns

On May 4, 2005 the School Board approved MSAD #15's $17, 934,622 operating budget for the 2005-2006 school year. Although this number contains an increase of 4.98% from the previous 04-05 budget, I feel that this budget improves our schools, maintains, current successful programs and recognizes the need for tax relief in the Towns of Gray and New Gloucester. Due to an increase of state subsidy and the School Board's commitment to "hold the line" on program expenses, the 2005-2006 budget returns $945,467 to the citizens of Gray and New Gloucester and reduces the mil rate for education.

The 2005-2006 School Budget was generated through a thoughtful collaborative process. Administration, staff, citizens, and town leaders had the opportunity to provide feedback to the School Board during its work sessions. Although the 2005-2006 budget cannot meet all of the District's needs next year, I believe that this budget does meet the primary goals established by the administrators and Board at the beginning of the budget process.

Maintaining current successful programs
Although two teaching positions and one ed tech position had to be eliminated from the budget due to enrollment and a refocusing of technology, all programs are intact.

Boosting the capacity of all our schools so that we graduate students with the necessary reading, writing, and math skills to access postsecondary options

The special education, gifted and talented, and English as a Second Language, transportation and technology programs have all been strengthened in this budget.

The Board has also increased administrative time at the high school to help with the increased numbers of students and to support the staff as they engage in the recommendations documented in the accreditation process. All-Day Kindergarten will be placed on the warrant as a separate article.

Paying attention to the capital asset, maintenance and technology needs of our District

The technology budget has been increased to fund a realistic replacement schedule for our computers. In addition, more computers will be available for the high school students. Maintenance and Capital Assets funds have been maintained or increased. An additional $150,000 for the Capital Reserve Account is included in this budget.

Recognizing the need for tax relief

Although MSAD #15's operating budget is increasing by 4.98% there will be a mil rate decrease for the citizens of Gray (1.04) and New Gloucester (1.19).

The goal of this budget is to improve our schools as we try to provide tax relief so that the citizens will support our bond proposal to upgrade our school buildings. Together we have done just that! This budget reflects fixed costs and necessary upgrades for current, successful programs. It also gives back a substantial portion of our increased state subsidy to the citizens of Gray and New Gloucester. Our vision of students and staff working together in clean, well maintained buildings will become a reality.

Our vision of well prepared students who can read, write, do math and think well enough to go to postsecondary opportunities is within our reach. Thanks to you!

MSAD #15 sends an Annual Budget Report directly to homes prior to the June 14 vote. I intend to place that report in all the local newspapers instead of issuing a separate mailing. In addition, budget information will be available at the District's web site, as well as in Central Office. A public hearing to explain the budget will be held at the New Gloucester Meeting House prior to the School Board meeting on May 25.