By: Dr. Norma Martinez, Director of Communications
The Goose Creek CISD Board of Trustees and Administration have demonstrated remarkable persistence and dedication in their mission to create a balanced budget. Typically, school districts take 4-5 years to address budget deficits, but Goose Creek CISD is poised to achieve this milestone within three years of focused effort.
Last year, for the 2023-2024 school year, administration was challenged to make a substantial reduction of almost $12 million- $11,813,491- to be exact, with $4 million coming out of the central administration and support staffing budget, and $6 million coming from teacher reductions made by applying staffing guidelines.
In this second year of implementing a budget reduction, the district remains committed to financial stability. Strategic evaluations and cost assessments across the district have been conducted meticulously, setting the stage for the final year of adjustments. Administration proposed $25 million in General Fund budget deficit reductions comprised of over $13 million in budget reductions and nearly $12 million diverted from Capital Improvement Project Fund to General Fund. Initially, a balanced budget which included a 3% general pay increase, was proposed. However, the board of trustees opted for a 4% increase which resulted in a $1.8 million deficit. Through these challenging times, the Goose Creek CISD leadership ensures that the quality of instruction and student programs remains uncompromised. Although the district’s philosophy is clear: despite financial hurdles, the primary focus on high-quality education and comprehensive student programs will not waver. By prioritizing instructional excellence and maintaining robust student support, Goose Creek CISD upholds its pledge to its community and students.
“We are Giants and we are on the road to a balanced budget,” said LeAna Dixon, the district’s Director of Finance. This statement encapsulates the dedication and determination of Goose Creek CISD. As the district approaches what it hopes to be as the final year of budget evaluations, the administration and Board of Trustees remain optimistic and committed to their goal of fiscal responsibility and educational excellence. The Goose Creek CISD Board of Trustees and Administration have shown that through careful planning, strategic cuts, and a commitment to their mission, developing the whole child, achieving a balanced budget is not just a possibility but an imminent reality.