Page 26 - The Edge - Summer 2020
P. 26
Officials Chart a Conservative Financial Path for Schools
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24
staff. Physical distancing is maintained to minimize agreed. So did Slovitsky, who sees no immediate
contact with contractors or maintenance repair firms growth, but does expect some in the Queen Creek
on site.” In addition, the nutrition staff uses bus area over the next five years.
drivers to deliver food to families who are unable to
get to pickup sites. Mee expects a status quo on funding. “There is so
much uncertainty in the financial community,” he
Participants were asked how the coronavirus said. “Any major changes that would affect us are
pandemic has changed their outlook on cash reserves. probably way down the road. We have to keep the
Bowler said the overall outlook at Glendale Union status quo to get through this.”
is more conservative. “It’s the unknown,” he said.
“It changed a lot of our outlook on reserves. We’re On the topic of wage increases and salary
a lot more conservative in terms of our growth adjustments, Wohlleber recommended: “Take into
projections. We had projected modest growth, now consideration your commitment to ongoing or long-
we’re not sure.” term obligations. Rather than increase wages by a
certain percentage, provide a stipend as a one-time
Slovitsky, too, has some concerns about cash reserves. increase to buy time and not obligate to long-term
She noted that food service is still providing meals increases.”
and paying employees, but revenue has dropped
because they no longer have daily sales. Mee added: “If reserves are depleted this year, you
Looking to an uncertain future, Wohlleber need to be very conservative about what you will be
recommended banking on flat enrollment. Bowler giving in terms of long-term commitments.”
|
26 THE EDGE SUMMER 2020
