As I begin the process of understanding goal driven budgets and the budgeting process, I now understand that the budgeting process consists of three components: planning, preparation, and evaluation. The descriptions of the five budget philosophies were interesting, and I was able to determine that our district uses a combination of the “Line-Item Budgeting” approach and the “Site-Based Budgeting” approach.
I found Exhibit 1, “Recommended SEA Indicators for Elementary and Secondary Education” in the TEA Budgeting Guidelines, January 2010” very informative. The explanation of inputs, outputs, outcomes, efficiency, and explanatory information along with indicators and its corresponding rationale will help me with future budget discussions.
I knew that the district’s budget had to be adopted by August 31 each year, but I was not aware of the other budgetary legal requirements established in the Texas Education Code. The Budget Calendar Sample found in Exhibit 4 was very informative and will be extremely useful if I ever become a Superintendent.
I had no knowledge of the annual district revenue estimates and expenditure projections. While I often hear the terms ADA, Tier 1, FTE, WADA, etc., it was helpful to learn what they mean and how they figure into the overall formula.
The “TEA Budgeting Guidelines January 2010” is one of the most useful documents I have found regarding school finance. I have printed it and will continue to read it because it contains so much information that I do not know. I realize it will take several readings along with practice in future assignments to better understand Texas school finance.REFLECTION:
After this assignment, I continue to be amazed at the complexity of the budgeting process. I am anxious to complete this course and go back and review the questions from the practice test we completed back in the Internship course to see if I have gained any insight into school finance. I am overwhelmed at this point, but am cautiously optimistic.
Brenda,
ReplyDeleteI feel the same way that "TEA Budgeting Guidelines" is one of the most useful document.
I can see that you enjoyed reading and reviewing it. While reviewing your summary i realized that i missed exhibit 4. I will go back and review it.
Good Job
PS: Thank you for guiding me on how to submit on the faculty blog.
Ahmet
I agree that the guidelines will prove very useful. Your summary is very well done and it sounds like you spent a lot of time on it.
ReplyDeleteVery well done Brenda. It appears you did a very extensive job reviewing the guidelines. I as well continue to be amazed at the budgeting process.
ReplyDelete