Hartland Schools Looks to Approve 2013-14 Budget

The Hartland Consolidated Schools Board of Education will look to approve the budget for the 2013-14 school year on Wednesday night.

Currently the district has planned for a year-end Fund Balance of $2,424,514, which is 5 percent of expenditures, according to the district's budget report.

The report addresses the issue of unstable school funding and low student enrollment but states that Hartland employee contracts protect the district's Fund Balance and "allows programs to remain; a critically important item in that gaining and maintaining enrollment through Schools of Choice is only possible if we maintain quality, attractive educational and after school programs."

The district reports that moving forward, they are looking for ways to help maintain the minimum Fund Balance without relying on employee contributions.

Over the course of the next school year, Hartland Schools will be analyzing each department to determine cost reduction opportunities and "less expensive alternatives."

The report also states that more support from legislative leaders for additional revenue "should be a significant piece of the budget balancing puzzle for schools in Michigan."

For a complete look at the budget, click here.