“Difficult but not impossible” was how one veteran budget member described the process ahead as members of the Newberg School District Budget Committee met in a workshop session to assess the task ahead.

Superintendent Dr. Paula Radich and Nathan Roedel, Finance and Operations Director, presented five potential budget scenarios for the coming school year. Estimates included flat or level funding, the Governor’s proposed budget, which represents a $1.3 million reduction for Newberg, and somewhat rosier budget estimates based on various legislative proposals.

Until the K-12 financial picture is more solid, Newberg will base its budget planning on a two-year $5.6 billion state K-12 budget, which would require additional budget reductions for Newberg.

Newberg School District expects revenue savings next year from increased enrollment, retirements and a potential increase in class size. The district is hoping to save $500,000 between now and the end of June to offset reductions next year. The district is facing $1.3 million increase in PERS costs, increased transportation and employee costs and a loss of $1.5 million in federal funds next year.

Budget Committee members worked in small groups to explore ways of doing things differently next year. Suggestions included increasing volunteerism, more effective use of technology and changes to the way the Budget committee reviews the budget and engages community members.

The first official Budget Committee meeting is April 4, 2011 at 7:00 p.m.