Budget

Budget

Instruction: Prepare a paper reflecting on the budget philosophy of your principal...how does the school receive the funds and how are the funds distributed in the school; also, develop and reflect on your current philosophy of administering a school budget, including all aspects of what you consider are issues which need to be addressed at various times during the school year, including how you see categorical funds being distributed in your building.

Interview Responses:

1. What is your budget philosophy?

The budget is a moral document that outlines the investments being made towards the priorities of the district’s strategic plan.

2. How does the school receive the funds?

The majority of funds are received through the apportionment process from the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction, derived from state approved funding formulas. Other monies come in from tax collection and local donations.

3. How are the funds distributed in the school?

Staffing levels are created by projected building enrollment, then building budgets are allocated according the enrollment levels. Additional grant dollars are distributed based on qualified student needs

4. What do you consider are issues which need to be addressed at various times

during the school year, including how you see categorical funds being distributed in

buildings?

It is important for building principals or department managers to check in on their budgets monthly and ensure the plan is being followed that positively impacts student outcomes. Often things arise that require analysis and strategic pivoting, but those won’t be clear unless you are reviewing things monthly. Categorical programs are designed to address the additional needs of students who qualify under those programs, so it is important that distribution follows the students.