The $1,265,526 that BCSC will receive in federal stimulus funds is certainly unexpected revenue, but it still falls far short of bridging the $3-$4 million budget gap for this year. Major reductions must still take place and a great deal of careful consideration must be given to how and when these dollars are utilized.
In a letter to Superintendents and School Boards Friday, August 27, State Superintendent Tony Bennett said (in reference to the stimulus funds), “I urge you to be careful with how and when you spend these funds. . . . the next budget cycle will be very difficult. Therefore, please consider reserving this one-time funding until the level of resources budgeted by the General Assembly in the upcoming budget cycle becomes clearer.”
BCSC plans to heed Supt. Bennett’s advice and proceed with caution.
