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Increased fuel and other costs concern R-7

Monday, September 15, 2008

A recent survey conducted by the American Association of School Administrators shows school district budgets nationwide are taking a hard hit. The results of the survey indicate rural school districts are being impacted the most due to extensive bus routes. The possible budget solutions include conserving energy, consolidating bus routes and cutting back on field trips and supplies.

The Farmington R-7 school district is feeling the pinch of increased energy costs just like the other schools. Expenditures on diesel fuel for the 2008-2009 school year are expected to increase more than double the amount spent two years ago.

Ensuring the most cost efficient bus routes, reducing bus highway speeds, combining activity trips and limiting field trips are all measures being considered to reduce costs.

In school buildings practices to conserve energy include turning off lights in areas not being used and reducing the amount of non-essential equipment used throughout the buildings. Air conditioning and heating thermostats will be adjusted to conserve energy as well. At this point, all district budgets are being examined to help determine potential savings.

In addition to rising fuel and energy costs, school districts are experiencing increased expenses for food, paper, textbooks, wages and salaries and benefits. AASA President Randall Collins recently said, “While school systems are working hard to limit programming cuts, the sharp increase in costs will have a negative impact on children, especially disadvantaged children, unless the states and federal government act quickly to provide relief.”

AASA Executive Director Daniel A. Domenech feels school districts need assistance. “Education is an investment. State governments and the federal government must step in on behalf of the nation’s children to fill the gaps created by rising costs and shrinking budgets,” said Domenech.

Over 500 superintendents nationwide participated in the survey and 99 percent said increased costs are impacting their school systems.

According to the survey some district’s fuel expenses will increase this year alone as much as 140 percent.