Page 13 - The Edge - Fall 2018

tips on Current Year funding Denis said his district experienced a drop of students in the
Continued from page 12 middle grades of third, fourth and fifth, but then returned. “Why
were they leaving?” he said. “We had to be able to address that.”
“Or maybe 15 new students show up that we weren’t expecting. He strongly urged communicating with all stakeholders,
What do we do with them?” especially the Governing Board. “What are their priorities and
Other aspects to watch that can affect budgets are goals – what do they want us to do?” Denis said.
residential developments and the special education Weekly conversations should be held with all groups, so
population, Dale said. each department knows what the others are doing. “Make
Denis stressed the importance of trend analysis. “You have sure everyone is on the same page regarding policies and
to know what has happened historically, and what you might procedures,” Denis said. “Maintaining a dialog will help them
anticipate is going to happen,” he said. “It’s not a guarantee, do their jobs better.”
but it’s a best guess.” Dale described dealing with current year funding as a moving
“When student projections indicate an increase, Denis said, target. “There is no silver bullet, no science to it,” he said. “You
you will need more teachers, staff, tables, and chairs, and you’ll have to improvise, adapt and overcome. The system is flawed.
need to address bus schedules. With a declining enrollment, he It’s bad. Try to create stability. You don’t want fluctuations.”
said his district “tried very hard to make cuts outside classrooms Denis Ponder, Yuma Elementary School District No. 1, can be
so students wouldn’t be affected.” eached at: dponder1@yuma.org.
Dale recommended seeking continuous feedback from
principals and staff. “What’s working well and what’s not,” he Dale Ponder, Crane Elementary School District No. 13, can be
said. reached at: dponder@craneschools.org.

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FALL 2018 | THE EDGE 13