A review of the fiscal practices of the Sequim School District would show a consistent pattern of conservative spending while utilizing every available resource to provide the most essential services directly to our students.

The most current audited fiscal data indicates that our district spends considerably less than comparable school districts, including levy rates that are less than half the statewide average.

The current levy proposal will not alter the district's commitment to the most efficient use of the resources provided. While the levy amounts requested increase incrementally over the three years of the collection, the total revenue of the district - including the projected revenue from levy amounts - is projected to remain flat. The 2009-2010 budget projects revenue to be $24.2 million while revenue in 2010-2011 and 2011-2012 is projected to be $24 million - $200,000 less.



Staff cut to bone

Last year the district took aggressive actions to prepare for the continued erosion of state revenues. This included dramatic reductions of all spending including staff reductions.

Current district staffing levels in all areas, including administration, have been reduced to the minimum allocations provided by the state. While these actions were necessary, our options to continue to reduce a very conservative budget are extremely limited.

I understand it is imperative that all of us, including our school district, make wise fiscal decisions that include tightening our belt during difficult times.

Even prior to the recent changes in the economy, the district's fiscal policies were very conservative, accounting for every penny spent. Our continuing commitment will remain to be good stewards of the resources we have been provided while accomplishing the most important mission of preparing our students for their future.

FAQs and answers

about the levy:

Visit www.sequim.k12.wa.us



Bill Bentley is superintendent of the Sequim School District.