SUP’S SCOOP
May 6, 2004
Volume 2, Issue 5
 
 
 
 
We all know that a school organization is successful only because of the efforts of everyone working for our children. However, it is important each year that we take time out to recognize the special magic that goes on in the classroom between a teacher and his or her students. We are fortunate in Burlington to have an outstanding and caring teaching staff who works tirelessly to ensure all students are learning. I get to see that dedication firsthand as I visit classrooms around the school district and can attest to the many ways our teachers demonstrate their commitment to the education profession. One of my favorite bumper stickers of all time says, “If you can read this, thank a teacher!” Take time this week to thank our teachers!!!
 
 
Throughout this year a dedicated group of community leaders has been meeting twice monthly to help the district set the direction for future facilities needs. The committee is completing its work and will be making recommendations to the school board this month. A key recommendation of the committee is for the district to develop a comprehensive plan for the high school to accommodate the inevitable student growth that will occur in the future. The work of this committee is proactive and will allow the district time to engage our staff and community in meaningful discussions regarding our future facilities needs. I will update you on specific committee recommendations at a later time.

 

 
WORK LOAD COMMITTEE
 
Throughout the winter certificated representatives from all buildings have been meeting to discuss rising concerns regarding work load, assessments, and supervision. The committee has studied these issues and is preparing recommendations that will be presented to the Burlington-Edison Education Association and the school board for further consideration and discussion. Recommendations will be shared with all staff once they have been finalized. The committee is to be commended for their efforts to address these important and challenging issues for certificated staff.
 
BUDGET DEVELOPMENT
 
At this time of year the school district annually engages in the development of the budget for the upcoming school year. As I have reported in the past, we are fortunate for the 2004-2005 school year to have no budget reductions. The administrative team has been reviewing past budget reductions as well as potential priorities for the future to make recommendations to the board for the 2004-2005 budget. The board is scheduled to approve the budget at its July meeting.
 
B-EEA NEGOTIATIONS
 
For the past four months, the B-EEA and the school district have been meeting regularly to renegotiate the certificated contract. Four future negotiation sessions are scheduled on the calendar, and I look forward to continued discussion with the union leadership and resolution of the remaining issues.
 
Please e-mail Superintendent Jones with your ideas for the next Sup’s Scoop.
E-Mail: rjones@be.wednet.edu