Senate committee OKs funding flexibility

Educators requesting flexibility to address increasing cuts in education funding are another step closer to seeing their wish come true.

The full Senate Finance Committee Wednesday passed a bill providing school districts with the freedom to delay contract renewals, furlough teachers to avoid layoffs, postpone certain assessment tests and shift money around to soften budget cuts.

Final passage by the full Senate is expected by the end of next week.

Oconee County District Superintendent said he is appreciative of the action taken by the Finance Committee.

“It is critical that we delay issuing teacher contracts until May 15 in our district,” Lucas said. “By that date we will have a better understanding of funding and how it might impact our staffing levels for 2009-10.”

State Sen. Thomas Alexander, who represents Oconee County and a portion of Pickens County, said allowing school districts to delay the awarding of teacher contracts from April 15 until May 15 will “help them have a better handle on where they are financially.”

“We’re trying to assist them in any way possible during these challenging times,” Alexander said.

The bill passed Wednesday is a separate one than the overall funding flexibility legislation currently under consideration. Alexander said the committee desired dual bills as a precautionary measure in the event the Senate ran into roadblocks.

“I’m pleased to see it go through this expedited manner and that we could provide schools with the flexibility they need to manage their budgets,” he said.

Once the Senate gives final approval, Alexander is hopeful the legislation will pass through the House since that body has previously addressed the issue. While the legislation does contain some minor amendments, language regarding the awarding of teaching contracts remains intact.

upstatetoday.com
By Greg Oliver

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