Schroeder Set to Make Recommendations to School Board

Supt. Joe Schroeder will submit specific recommendations at Monday night's school board meeting for the projected $2.3 million deficit expected as a result of the governor's 2011-13 budget proposal.

The number reflects a reduction of state revenue of $2.4 and lost federal aid of $1.6 million, less $1.7 million in expected employee contributions to retirement and health care.  

A memo to the board indicated that Muskego was already anticipating tougher financial times.

"While few would have predicted the stark turn of events for public education funding...we certainly had projected tighter financial times on their way for some time," Schroeder said.

Schroeder pointed to the implementation of a 4K pilot program and the raising of competitiveness and success in the district, which led to increased enrollment, as proactive measures that will help to lessen the impact of decreased funding.  He also listed the deferral of funds from the Education Jobs Fund to be applied to either 2011-12 or 2012-13 budget years as key in reducing the projected deficit.

In addition, refinancing of construction debt obligations and lower cost estimates on health insurance plans may net an additional $500,000 in savings to cut the deficit by a third.

Schroeder's memo also indicated that where "workforce reductions are necessary, we have pursued these through attrition rather than layoffs, where possible, while still making sense for the organization's future."

The specifics of Schoeder's recommendations will be discussed Monday, March 21 at Lakeview Elementary in Wind Lake at 7:30 p.m.