Budgeting for Success

2009-2012 Financial Planning Process

The negative economic conditions continue to impact residents, businesses, communities and governments at the local, state and national levels. Bloomington Public Schools is not immune to this impact, but its historically fiscally conservative approach to budgeting and spending has helped the District to weather the economic storm to date.

Strength from our community
Unlike some school districts, Bloomington Public Schools is currently in a solid financial position with a positive fund balance. We are fortunate to have a supportive community and residents who allow us to meet the current needs of our classrooms and schools. The passage of the 2007 Referendum was a major facilitator in allowing Bloomington Public Schools to continue to be successful.

Financial planning is key
The uncertainty of any additional funding for next year and the foreseeable future combined with the state’s lack of school funding to keep pace with inflation over the past five years, has forced Bloomington Public Schools to rely on a long-term view of available resources balanced against future needs. We cannot sustain our current budget with no increase of state funding. Therefore, we have developed a process to identify budget adjustments to continue to provide an excellent education for children, sustain our financial position next year and ensure long-term economic stewardship.

We need your help
We would like this process to be a collaboration of our employees, union leadership, parent and community partners. This process will involve identifying innovative ways to reach solutions that allow us to remain successful with the resources available.

Please use this site to input your ideas on budgeting enhancements and/or reductions you feel the District should consider and visit often to find the latest information on how Bloomington Public Schools is managing the economic challenges ahead.

Questions?
E-mail commrelations@bloomington.k12.mn.us.