Using the same scenario from DQ1, the budget director must present alternatives to the district superintendent for consideration. Describe the alternatives you would recommend so the superintendent and/or board has choices.
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Business
Name:
Institution Affiliation:
BUSINESS
1. The part of the budget I would first examine
The part of the budget I would first examine is the variable costs. Given that the budget cut amounts to 2.5% of the total budget, it is impractical to cut fixed costs such as buildings or teacher salaries to save on the $250,000; therefore, it is only logical to examine variable costs first since their likelihood of being cut is higher. Variable costs would also be examined first since, unlike fixed costs, which remain constant regardless of activity or student enrollment changes, variable costs can change in response to those shifts (Radecki, 2021). I would look at the variable cost categories of supplies, transportation, utilities, and certain instructional materials. This examination will be helpful to me as the budget director in getting insight into present spending patterns and locating areas where cuts can be done without negatively affecting the quality of education pupils receive.
2. What I would cut
After the examination, I would cut non-personnel costs of supplies. This is because, even after the cuts, the schools can receive funding to invest in innovative and upgraded supplies. According to the foundation that the school district has partnered with, schools dedicated to supportive and innovative strategies are eligible for funding. This funding can make the ability to invest in cutting-edge technology, educational software, or interactive learning resources possible. Modern, innovative supplies are essential for catering to a wide range of pupils' preferences. The funds might be used to buy resources like computers for pupils who need them or art supplies for students who want to express themselves creatively. Schools can use these funds to improve the learning environment, increase student engagement, and give all children access to cutting-edge tools and resources to aid their growth and development. Therefore, schools may continue to equip students with state-of-the-art supplies despite their budget cuts and keep up with the ever-changing educational landscape.
References
Radecki, J. (2021). University Budget Models and Indirect Costs: A Primer. https://doi.org/10.18665/sr.314858