Question: Do you know of a practical/comprehensive list of budget reduction and balancing ideas? How could I get a copy of it?

Response: There is a document prepared by School Services in cooperation with CASBO and supported by FCMAT, called "Doing More with Less." It includes over 400 specific ideas to contain or reduce costs, and perhaps increase revenues. Check the SSC website for more information.

In addition, here are some ideas. Contain costs for substitutes, both certificated and classified. If possible, use categorical funds for instructional aides, while remaining compliant with grant or entitlement guidelines. Eliminate overtime where possible. Work with bargaining unit contracts to contain the cost of health and welfare coverage, and establish pro-rated coverage for part-time employees over 4 hours. Create incentive programs to encourage safe working conditions for employees, reducing workers compensation exposure. Provide materials and supplies budgets on a formula basis, and require sites to use other discretionary funds when they exceed district-provided resources. Reduce travel and conference costs funded by discretionary dollars. Review new equipment purchases. Compare lease costs to purchasing options.

Be proactive in improving your district enrollment-to-ADA percentage, to maximize revenue limit funding. Strive to have food service programs be self-supporting. Eliminate encroachment in categorical programs outside of transportation and special education.

11/19/01