Message from the Superintendent

I hope this month’s letter finds you safe and warm; in particular with the 20 some degree temperatures we are enduring.  With this letter, I want to share about three “seasons.”  The first dealing with the weather and what could happen for tomorrow, Wednesday of this week.  The second sharing some thoughts around the holiday time prior to our winter vacation, and the third about the financial storm we see coming out of this next legislative session as they deal with the state’s economic situation.  If you want to just read the first two paragraphs, that is understandable; yet, I need to share all with you as we will be in it together.

The Weather:

Weather experts predict there is another winter storm which could bring freezing rain or snow between late Tuesday night and early Wed. tomorrow morning (12-17-08).  Since it is so cold and unless it warms up considerably, any snow/rain which falls could stay or freeze making the Wednesday travel plans most difficult.  Realizing expert predictions change often with radar and other technologies used to track storms, they are also suggesting that if it does start it might continue for hours, with an accumulation during the day on Wednesday.  We will continue to monitor all of this, and make the best decision possible, realizing that if the storm comes as predicted what we have that morning would get worse and not better during the day.  If this holds true, that may be the day to best not fight the weather.  This is not an early decision, just information at this time for you to be aware of these dynamics and as always to be prepared and tuned into the reports you use to hear our snow and school delay or closure decisions.  Having shared all of this, realize too, that predicting weather with all the technology and advancements is never exact, and between now and then it could all change and be a normal day.  Thanks again for your patience and professionalism.

The Holidays:

So too, this week is when we draw near to the holiday season and our winter break.  This time is and can be such a busy time for people in their non-work lives.  A friend of mine is near frantic trying to get all shopping and holiday plans finished and has realized that the expectations for making everyone happy and all events special move infinitely faster than is possible.  Great hearts and intentions can at times push us beyond our limits and finding a balance is essential.  Thus, while it will be wonderful to have some time for rest, family and friends; please do keep the reindeer of expectations harnessed so as to not build so much pressure on yourself to be everything to everyone.  The people who matter know of your love for them, regardless of all the ways you might think or feel you have to show it.  I made simple yet heartfelt gifts for my kids, and in addition to spending time with them, I am writing each a personal letter of my love and admiration for who they are as people and what they are doing with their lives.  It is a season to build up others and not a season of things.  It is a time for joy and celebration of life and enhancing relationships.  Where some may feel estranged from others, perhaps it is a time to reach out.  In any event and however you choose to spend the holiday season, please know that I offer my best hopes and wishes for you and your loved ones.  May you find and bring joy.  I look forward to everyone’s safe return as we all start 2009.

The Coming State Budget/Funding Challenge:

The next state budget will be a significant challenge; the current slow down in consumer spending results in less state sales tax; and thus, less state revenue in Washington to support state funding.  What was predicted in the fall to be a $3.2 billion shortfall for the next biennial budget is now forecasted to be a nearly $6 billion shortfall.  With public education receiving about 41 percent of the state’s general fund budget, when this legislature meets and does its work this session it will reduce funding to public schools.  Exactly which areas and how much will be reduced is and will be subject to the “politics” of this particular legislative season; however, most experts are predicting that for public school funding next year, the 2009-2010 school year will be one of the toughest fiscal years ever.  In an already under funded state system, more state funding reductions will severely impact all districts and schools in our state.  The Governor’s budget is expected out soon, possibly later this week; the House and Senate release their versions too, usually after the session has started.  We will begin the process by evaluating the impacts to our district of the proposed budgets.  Efforts to influence lawmakers to not reduce public school funding have been underway and will continue.  Thus, we will have to see what and how extreme the impacts.  As we have the information we will use our collaborative processes to review and move forward.  As always, we will share and process it with those who are interested this winter and into spring.  However profound the fiscal challenges, we will keep student learning as our priority. 

Thank you for your time to read and reflect on these messages.  Thank you for being you and for your caring and competent service in all seasons. 

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