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SUPERINTENDENT CARVALHO UNVEILS NEW 2010-2011 SCHOOL BUDGET Tax Decrease Proposed for Miami-Dade Homeowners Miami-Dade Superintendent of Schools Alberto M. Carvalho offered School Board members a preview of the 2010-2011 school year budget at a workshop today, with a plan that emphasizes student achievement above all. The values-driven budget plan reflects the school district’s guiding principles: no teacher cuts, protection of the most vulnerable members of the workforce; no reduction to art and music classes; a further decrease of class size; an improved credit rating; and a tax decrease for homeowners, while maintaining the fiscal viability of the District. “Today we presented a budget that balanced protection of our workforce with protection of the classroom, while respecting the taxpayers of Miami-Dade County,” said Carvalho. “Our budget must reflect our values.” This year’s budget comes with an unprecedented level of transparency to all stakeholders in the school district. The budget was developed after obtaining input and involvement by local stakeholders, including top CEOs, chambers of commerce, school administrators and parents. The budget boosts the school district’s reserves as well, which is important for maintaining the District’s favorable bond ratings. Less than two weeks ago, Moody’s Investor Service affirmed an underlying rating of “A1” for Miami-Dade County Public Schools and removed a negative outlook for the District. As a result of significant fiscal improvements achieved under the current administration, the outlook is now “Stable.” The nation’s newspapers headlines are a testament to the devastating circumstances school districts across the country are facing. The Superintendent has suggested cost-saving initiatives for a total savings of more than $35 million. Educational programs were analyzed for efficiency and effectiveness, as well as popularity, to help increase savings. # # # 10-JJS/190/GC |
