Week 2, Part 5 -- Stakeholder Input

Site-based decision making committees, the district improvement committee, and the Board of Trustees all operate under a set of goals. If student achievement is the focus and the various groups’ goals are aligned, then this should be a driving force in providing input in the development of a district’s budget.  Obviously, these groups can provide valuable information regarding program development/needs to aid in budget development.   Principals can provide input regarding staffing needs, professional development needs, and individual campus needs encompassing everything from teacher supplies to major maintenance issues. Central office administrators and staff are critical in providing input for a district’s budget.  Generally, district administrators and directors are charged with the responsibility of seeing the “big” picture and seeing things from a larger perspective.   In addition, central administration and directors analyze data to identify needs of students and evaluate the effectiveness of practices and programs currently in place. Teachers and teacher organizations can often provide input to budget by expressing their needs and concerns.  After all, they are the ones “in the trenches”. All the key stakeholders listed above can provide input into a district’s budget.  However, in addition to the key stakeholders, it is also important to consider current research as we determine the best and most appropriate use of our resources.

REFLECTION:

After interviewing my superintendent and business manager on the importance of involving key stakeholders in the budgeting process, I have a better understanding how all the pieces work together to create a goal-driven budget.  If I am ever in a position to be responsible for a district’s budget, I will involve all stakeholders in the budget development process.