Dr. Jenkins and Dr. Arterbury have a great discussion on the true definition of a collaborative, goal driven budget. Of particular interest to me was the fact that they recognized that there are numerous district improvement plans that fail to reflect the goals of the board of trustees. In referring to the “team of eight” they include the superintendent as well.
A goal driven budget is just that. Working together with stakeholders, need areas are identified (whether district wide, campus level, or support services or programs), goals are developed, and funding is directed towards achieving those goals. It is perplexing to me that some districts do not ultimately follow this approach in the development of their improvement plans.
Huffman ISD does a great job of using its district improvement plan as the driving force for budgeting. We have an ideal situation right now within our district where the board and administration are, and having been, working together as a cohesive group. It is amazing how fluid things can happen when this is the case. Together, along with stakeholder, we have developed the ASPIRE initiative. It addresses six individualized areas in which we hope to improve. They are active student body; safe, secure, student-centered finance and facilities; personalized staff/student relationships built; cutting edge technology; responsible and character-strong kids; career connections and excellence; and improvement of instruction through C-Scope.
Upon review of our ASPIRE initiative, it is clear to see that our budget is reflective of attainment of these goals. Our district improvement plan included an itemized chart of forms of 6 goals, incorporating ASPIRE elements in each. Each goal is outlined with various strategies, activities designed to achieve each goal, and both funding amounts and sources listed for the attainment of each.
6 comments:
I like the term you use, "a version of the vision." I think that is a great question to ask as your district is working on budgeting, etc to remind them to stay focused on the vision.
I work in the same district as Rob. What he states in his blog is correct. We have an effective process for developing our budget. Our school board is ultra conservative and we know that going into the process - it helps us go through the "devil's advocate" process - we can ask questions we'd anticipate from our Board and other stakeholders.
Great paper, Rob - you really nailed it!
Great job Robert. Well stated and very informative.
Robert, I think you did an excellent job. I have to also tell you that I liked the term "version of the vision." I would interpret that as different stakeholders having different parts that contribute to the whole.
Great job. I also chose to highlight the term phrase "version of the vision" in my reflection.
It was surprising to me that there are districts that do not have a goal driven budget. I am not sure how those districts will be successful without a budget that is aligned to a shared vision. Also, with budgets that are aligned to the board's goals.
Post a Comment