Local legislators discuss education issues with District 25
Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 held a meeting with local legislators to talk about district-specific issues as the next legislative session looms.
The topics of Monday’s discussion included curriculum and district staffing, but District 25’s funding took most of the conversation. In that discussion, the district’s director of business operations, Bart Reed, expressed the need for more flexibility with operational funding.
“Flexibility is key for making local decisions at a local level,” Reed said.
The district’s operational funds go toward things like maintenance and class supplies. Reed’s problem is when it comes earmarked, which is when the funding goes to specific purposes.
He feels earmarking inhibits the district’s use for it.
“If we need to spend a few more dollars in one area, we have the ability to do that,” Reed said. “As opposed to (the funds being) dedicated.”
In response to needing more wiggle room, Sen. Jim Guthrie, R-McCammon, didn’t say he’s against the idea– but he sees the benefits with having them earmarked.
“I think we do have to recognize that some of those earmarked funds put in place maybe took some pressure off the operational line. That said, I think there’s still room to move that up,” Guthrie said.
While not brought up, the recent school fee court decision was on District 25 Superintendent Doug Howell’s mind. A judge deemed some of West Ada School District’s fees as unconstitutional.
For now, the district will be reviewing their fees. Right now there are some for extra-curricular classes and activities.
“We need to take a closer look to make sure we’re not charging for anything beyond that,” Howell said.
Guthrie said fees are necessary for schools to operate.
“There is a lot of things that have to happen to make a school district work financially,” he said.
While District 25 has made budget cuts for this school year, Reed said it still was a good year thanks to additional state funding and the supplemental levy that passed in March.
