School Budgets 101

Nothing in our school district raises more passions, or is shrouded in more confusion, than the annual budget.  To help, I’ve put together a five-part series designed to give people a glimpse of the key issues in developing the school district budget each year.  My goals are to (1) dispel some of the most common misconceptions about the budget, and (2) explain my own approach to the budget as a school board member.   Understanding the budget doesn’t mean that everyone will always agree on the best course of action each year.  But at least everyone can understand the main constraints-- and opportunities-- our community faces when it comes to ensuring a quality public education.

Here are the five posts in this series:

• The Story of 4 School District Budgets
• Passing the Buck (or, Yes!  I'm a Patsy)
• Where's the Beef?
• Inequality is Expensive
• A Checklist for Meaningful Fiscal Responsibility

After reading this series of articles, please share your own thoughts, concerns, and observations about the East Penn budget process.  I welcome your input!

PS: You can also check out other posts I've written concerning the budget that aren't part of this series by clicking here.