SPS wins International Award for Budget Excellence

I was delighted to learn recently that The Association of School Business Officials International awarded Springfield Public Schools the Meritorious Budget Award for excellence in the preparation and presentation of its 2010-2011 annual budget. This is the first time Springfield Public Schools has received such an award and I am extremely proud of our Budget and Finance Department, which is led by acting Chief Financial Officer T.J. Plante.

I know that budget documents aren’t always “exciting” documents to read, but I urge you to take a glance at the SPS 2010-2011. It has been online since May, following the School Committee’s adoption of it... If you haven’t yet had a chance to read through it, it is accessible at www.sps.springfield.ma.us/AboutOurDistrict.asp.

The budget overcomes a $16 million deficit yet protects classroom funding and class size. In addition, it emphasizes the school district’s mission to improve student achievement; and increases student allotment to schools from $75 to $85 per student. The 2010-2011 budget also includes funding that reinstates middle school sports, enhances reading enrichment programs as well as sustains all costs related to student safety and security.

Again, I offer very proud congratulations to the men and women of the SPS Budget and Finance Department. Your hard work has allowed all of us to shine!