JACKSONVILLE - Following the close of the 2008 Legislative session, Duval County Public Schools’ Administrators determine the crippling financial effects that the sales tax revenue shortfall, Amendment 1 and fixed cost increases will have on Duval County Public Schools’ 2008/2009 budget.
Although the Legislature allowed us flexibility in using capital money for operating, the combined factors will cause a nearly $70 million dollar shortfall to next year’s budget that could potentially cause a reduction in salary and benefits for teachers and administrative staff, reduction in programs and the cutback of employees.
“Unfortunately the state did not provide us with the sufficient funds to effectively run a large urban school district,” said Duval County Public Schools Superintendent Ed Pratt-Dannals. “Florida was ranked at the bottom of a 2006 census bureau report on public education finances, and there is no reason to believe that we are not there now.”
District officials remain steadfast in our dedication to providing quality education to all of our students, and we will continue to ensure that Duval County students receive all of the proper tools and training they need to succeed.
Duval County Public Schools operates more than 160 schools and serves approximately 125,000 students. The school district is committed to providing high quality educational opportunities that will inspire all students to acquire and use the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a global economy, and culturally diverse world.
2008/2009 Budget Fact Sheet
Current Status
Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) is facing the biggest shortfall in three decades
- Projected shortfall: $ 70 million
- Current year budget: $1.049 billion
- Fixed cost increases for 2008/2009: 19 million + 1.049 billion = $1.068 billion
- Fixed costs – Transportation, Energy/Utilities, Contracts, Salary/Benefits
- State revenue projections for DCPS 2008/2009 budget = $ 998 million
- $1.068 billion - $998 million = $ 70 million
DCPS Actions
Duval County Public Schools implemented budget reduction strategies in February due to cuts to the 2007/2008 budget and impending cuts to the 2008/2009 budget.
- Hiring freeze for all non-mission critical positions
- Limited travel
- Supplies and equipment centrally managed for School and District offices to minimize non-critical purchases
Proposed Reductions
Duval County Public Schools is working with the School Board and employee bargaining representatives to determine the best solution to the revenue shortfall. The following is a list of proposed reductions, not yet confirmed:
- Modified health benefits and costs
- Little or no salary increases for school based employees
- No promotional or salary increase for District administrators
- Shortened work schedule (days and hours)
- Reduction of personnel, except academic teachers
- Reduced funding for programs
Legislative Request granted
- Allow District to use a portion of our local capital outlay millage for operating
costs - $15 million
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