Jordan School Board waits on state numbers, mulls budget-cut options

WEST JORDAN — As lawmakers finalize state revenue figures, Jordan School Board is taking the time to gather public opinion and work toward a plan to solve the district's $30 million budget crisis.

"It doesn't make sense for the board to do anything with this until after the legislative session is over," said Jordan District Superintendent Barry Newbold.

Lawmakers are still working on the budget for fiscal year 2011 which begins July 1.

Jordan Board member Carmen Freeman says the district's budget cut plan is an "ongoing discussion" right now.

Jordan District's plan could call for eliminating jobs, increasing class sizes, cutting back on administration, and reducing or killing programs. Many educators say the district should raise taxes and consider a furlough.

Another idea is to implement an across-the-board salary decrease for all district employees, possibly 1 percent to 5 percent.

Board member Leah Voorhies says she doesn't like the pay decrease idea. "I want to make that clear. Our teachers have already taken several hits," Voorhies said. "The teachers I have heard from have resoundingly said, 'Please don't cut our salaries.' "

Last fall, Jordan District teachers lost 8.5 days professional development days and received a 1 percent cost of living increase but didn't receive pay raises for "steps," which is the incremental increases for their years of experience. This was all a net pay decrease of 4.5 percent due to state budget cuts mandated by the Legislature.

The next regular Jordan Board meeting is scheduled for March 9. The board agenda will be finalized Friday.

Hundreds of teachers, students and parents attended last Tuesday's board meeting to voice their opinions. Students staged a walkout last Thursday.

Voorhies said she has received more than 400 e-mails, a dozen phone calls and numerous personal visits since last Wednesday from the public who are concerned with the budget cuts. "I want to hear everyone's opinions," she said.

The district is facing a $30 million deficit due to the recession, state budget cuts and the district split.

"We're in a little bit of shambles right now," said board member Rick Bojak.

Board member Randy Brinkerhoff said they are doing everything they can to balance the budget, which is required by law. "Everything we do hurts someone," he said. "It hurts my heart."

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