Got questions about the Shelton school budget proposal?
At two upcoming events, Superintendent Freeman Burr will talk with parents and citizens about the details of the $64.96 million budget request.
The first session will be held at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at Perry Hill School.
The Shelton Council, a parent volunteer group, is hosting the information session.
The second session will be held at 7 p.m. on Feb. 1 at the Shelton Intermediate School Auditorium. That workshop is hosted by the elementary school PTO and PTA groups.
“I’m hoping parents come out and get a jump start,” said Shelton Council President Peggy Camp. “So when the Board of Alderman starts its process, (the parents) are a little more informed.”
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Budget 2011 1 – 27
The Board of Education is asking the city for $64.96 million in 2011 – 2012 — about $1.86 million more than the district’s current, $63.1 million budget.
With about 90 former school employees still out of work, almost half that increase — or $800,000 — is estimated solely to cover lingering unemployment costs in the district.
The rest of the increase will cover salary, health insurance and utility increases, according to school officials.
The budget proposal also includes about $452,000 to re-hire library specialists, a library aide and guidance counselors in the district.
Those positions were among more than 100 cut last July, when the board of education started its current budget.
The proposal still needs to be reviewed by the Board of Apportionment and Taxation and the Board of Aldermen.
Last year, the school budget received a small increase, which resulted in layoffs. Parents packed several budget meetings and public hearings to express their concerns about the budget.
Several have pledged to do the same during this budget season.
