Recently, this paper printed a letter from Ms. Lara Stone stating that two School Board members were proposing a budget that would “reduce administrators’ salaries and benefits by 45 percent immediately.” Presumably I was one of the Board members to which Ms. Stone was referring. While I appreciate Ms. Stone’s interest in the district budget, I would like to correct some misstatements.
At no time have I, or any other Board member, proposed a budget that would “reduce administrators’ salaries and benefits by 45 percent immediately.” However, it is true that I have questioned BCSD district administrators’ pay packages. Specifically, I have stated that I understand that our cost of living is higher here than throughout the state. While I have no problem with teachers earning about 61 percent more than the state average, I have questioned why some district administrators get paid much more—71 percent higher for Superintendent, 121 percent higher for Business Manager and 151 percent higher for Buildings and Grounds Director. In addition, I have questioned why district administrators get significant benefits that teachers don’t get, including health insurance for family members, additional 9.02 percent of salary as deferred compensation, life insurance, disability insurance and, in some cases, use of cars, cellphones and computers.
Our Board has heard from many community members who would like the Board to prioritize spending in areas that benefit children, such as Hispanic Parent Liaison, Mountain Rides, Special Needs Students Parent Liaison, International Baccalaureate. On the other hand, community members, including many teachers, would like to see other areas “on the table” for discussion, such as some district administrators’ benefits and the $250,000 Communications Department.
I urge community members with opinions about budget priorities to email all Board members at amandalachance@blaineschools.org. The Board has until June 28 to submit budget to state.
Elizabeth Corker
Hailey resident and Blaine County School District trustee