Over the next two years, the state is looking at a $20 billion dollar deficit, and they are trying to do what they can to balance the budget, but that might mean cuts to education.
Mission CISD is looking ahead and preparing for the state cuts in funding.
On Wednesdsay night, the school board approved a program that officials say could help balance the budget.
“The state is in a major budget crunch right now, and basically all the school districts have been told that we can expect cutting to be done to our state funding,” said Craig Verley, Mission CISD public relations director.
Verley said at the moment, Mission CISD’s budget is in good shape, but if cuts to education through state funding is approved by legislators, the district’s budget could be in the red.
“As it was proposed, they’re proposing anywhere from 5 to 10 percent cut,” said State Representative for District 36 Sergio Munoz, Jr.
Verley said over 70 percent of Mission CISD’s budget comes from state funding, and a five to 10 percent cut would be a big impact for the district.
“However it doesn’t mean that that is what we’re going to end up with. As a legislator especially from the Valley knowing how important education is, we’re trying to restore and maintain the funds we need for our area to continue to provide those opportunities to our students,” said Munoz.
At a school board meeting, officials approved a resignation incentive program to prepare for state cuts.vo
Verley said in the resignation incentive program, eligible employees would work through the rest of the school year but receive a one-time check in May in the amount of 10 percent of their annual salary or $6,000 dollars whichever is less.
The district is asking that no more than 217 employees voluntarily resign from their positions.
“It is something that the employees need to consider carefully because it will be a legally binding contract,” said Verley.
If they sign on to the program, they won’t be albe to work full time with the district for five years.
Verley said employees will be presented with the program details Friday and Monday, and it will be up to them whether they want to participate.
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