What are the major issues?

By James A. "Jim" Livingston, Ed.D.

This is a brief description of the three major issues in the district and possible solutions to the problems resulting from those issues.

Ø One of the most important issues facing the district is the issue of maintaining a high quality work force. Many employees will be retiring in the near future. As these persons leave, much of the district knowledge and skill bases leave with them.

Solving this problem will require that we continue an active recruiting program designed to identify and employ highly qualified persons to replace those that are leaving. We want to employ the best possible persons in order to maintain and improve educational programs.

Ø The second issue is that of aging and deteriorating facilities. Aging facilities require maintenance and repair in order to provide working environments conducive to learning.

Solving this problem requires that we continue to develop and implement maintenance and repair schedules that address the facilities problems as they arise and to provide preventive maintenance on a programmed schedule.

Ø The third major issue is that of fiscal needs. It is necessary to obtain adequate funds to provide competitive salaries for highly qualified persons and to provide facilities and equipment as well as curriculum materials and supplies.

Solving this problem will require additional efforts to help the legislature develop laws and regulations that will make funds available to implement any new programs that are mandated for the schools and to fully fund current programs that have been mandated. Due to the current methods of financing education, school districts are limited in the ability to raise funds at the local level. Continued efforts need to be made explaining educational needs to legislators and helping them devise ideas for more fully funding the needs of the school districts. We must also continue participation in programs that provide funds while searching for alternative funding sources.