By CHARLES OWENS
TAZEWELL, Va. — A projected $5.6 million budget shortfall could force school officials in Tazewell County to eliminate several positions, including assistant principals and clerical workers.
The proposed budget reflects a loss of $2.8 million in state funding and $2.6 million in one-time federal stabilization funds. A number of potential reductions were presented to the Tazewell County School Board last week by School Superintendent Dr. Brenda Lawson.
“It’s one of the worse (budgets) certainly that I’ve had to deal with in my tenure in this position,” Lawson said. “I think if these changes go through it will definitely impact public education in a negative way. Right now, it’s a strong possibility that we could lose personnel.”
Lawson said the proposed budget includes an additional shortfall of $689,505 based upon Gov. Bob McDonnell’s decision not to freeze the implementation of a new composite index. The local composite index is based on the wealth of localities relative to the average statewide wealth, and also reflects the portion of the cost associated with the Standard of Quality that will paid by the locality.
The proposed reductions being considered by the board include moving five full-time elementary principals to part time; the elimination of seven assistant principals; the elimination of nine school clerical positions; and moving at least one high school guidance counselor to a part time position. The reductions would equal $1,079,251.52 in savings.
The board also is considering the elimination of currently vacant positions as well as others that may become vacant; a reduction in central office administrative, supervisory and support positions; and extending school bus, computer and textbook replacement purchases.
Lawson said the school board also continues to eliminate existing positions through attrition.
Lawson said the proposed 2010-2011 school budget is still a work in progress. Lawson said officials are still meeting with school administrators and looking for addition ways to reduce savings without having to eliminate personnel.
“I can tell you in discussions at the board meeting the other night our board is going to make a commitment to children and parents, and we are going to try to develop and implement a budget that still hopefully maintains the quality of programs and services as best as we can,” Lawson said.
Lawson said officials will have to make a timely decision.
“We want to work through this in a timely fashion because when you are talking about reducing personnel, I think we have an obligation to inform those people who may be affected as quickly as possible,” she said. “These are drastic cuts, and it has serious implications for our children.”
– Contact Charles Owens at cowens@bdtonline.com
