MDUSD Superintendent Newsletter #6

October 22, 2010
 
Mt. Diablo USD News Update
Where Kids Come First
 
Fifth Annual Day at the Races for Literacy
 
Raising Funds to Raise Readers -- On Saturday, October 30, 2010 the Central Contra Costa Literacy Coalition and The Rotary Club of Concord are working together to benefit the literacy programs in Central Contra Costa County.  The event, scheduled from 8:30 a.m to 2:00 p.m., is being hosted by the Hilton Concord and 100 percent of the $20 entry fee will be donated to fund literacy projects.  The entry fee provides an opportunity to participate in a 1K, 5K or 10K race, and enjoy a spaghetti and meatballs lunch and free concert.  School teams are encouraged to enter to raise funds for their school’s literacy program.  For information about the event call 925-349-2654 or register online at www.theschedule.com .
 
Budget Update
 
Although the State budget restored the $275 per-student reduction from the Governor’s May budget proposal, and we will receive $6 million in new one-time Federal dollars, we are being very cautious about the District’s budget.  In a Los Angeles Times article dated October 10, 2010, by Evan Halper, Mr. Halper asserts that come January, a new governor and a new crop of lawmakers will have to confront the $19 billion deficit that the current governor and legislature failed to address.  Quoting the Los Angeles Times:  
 
The most optimistic projections show that the spending plan Schwarzenegger signed will produce a shortfall of at least $10 billion – more than 11% of state spending – in the next fiscal year.  Many experts predict it will be billions more.  The leaders mostly papered over this year’s gap, punting many tough decisions forward.
 
We have read many analyses of the State budget that reach similar conclusions.  A commensurate 11% reduction to California’s education budget would be approximately $5.5 billion.  This would translate into an additional $20 million reduction to our District budget!  Consequently, there is a high probability of mid-year cuts.  Therefore, it is imprudent to allocate or spend the $6 million in one-time Federal dollars until the new governor’s January budget is released.   We want to ensure that the District has adequate funding in place to prevent mid-year reductions in programs and personnel.
 
 
Shining the Light on Solar
 
Solar Update -- This Tuesday, October 26, 2010 the Board of Education will consider approving the contract with SunPower.  Once the contract is approved, the design and State approval process begins.  Our goal is to break ground in early spring 2011 and have the solar project completed by mid spring 2012.  Once the installation of solar shade projects begins, we will post updates and pictures on the District webpage.