Another school year is under way for Buffalo-Hanover-Montrose Schools.  The district is one of the largest area employers and will spend around $63 million from July 1, 2008 through June 30, 2009.  The district's size, by a variety of measures, is larger than many communities.  It is not just another one-room country school house.

Another summer of preparation has taken place; staff training, cleaning, painting, construction, and the list goes on and on.  Starting a school year with everything in place is a monumental task.  I credit staff who has worked diligently over the past months to be ready for this enterprise to launch.

Another fall means school events are in full swing.  Open house for parents and students, elementary school fall festival celebrations and, in a couple months, parent/teacher conferences, provide avenues for parents and students to truly engage in a partnership to improve learning.  Fall student activities are underway and offer great entertainment and social opportunities for students, parents and community members alike.  

Another election date is slated for community members in November.  In addition to selecting a new president and many local, state, and federal officials, the school district is asking a levy referendum.  As I wrote last June, I am sure the decision by the school board to ask another tax question was received with mixed responses in the community.  For a variety of reasons last fall, residents said, "No" to a levy referendum that would have sustained and added value to programs and services offered by the district.  As promised, in order to balance the budget, the district implemented budget reductions of $1.825 million for the 2008-09 school year.

Another vote allows residents to determine what they want their public schools to look like in the coming years.  I believe the school board would have been remiss in their duties if they were to simply implement phase two of the budget reductions without seeking public input via a vote.  Yet I, like many superintendents, am a little bewildered when residents call who are frustrated that the district is asking to increase local property taxes.  While school districts would like to have discretionary levy authority enjoyed by other governmental bodies, public schools, by law, must ask for more funding, and that means the residents get to make the final decision.  Yes, the public gets the final say, not the school board nor the superintendent.

Another levy referendum provides an opportunity for me to remind residents we have a wonderful school district.  Is everything perfect? No, but this staff is constantly striving to improve and meet the expectations of school owners (that would be you).  However, another failed levy referendum will mean more budget reductions resulting in less staff, programs, and services for students.

Another critical day for the school community will come on November 4. You'll want to be sure you are informed about the issue before you step into the voting booth this fall; then it won't be just another day...