Superintendent’s Message – November 2014
Hello Timberlane!
The tax rates are in and I am pleased to announce they are significantly lower than estimated. It’s important to note that the school district portion of your current tax bill is a direct result of responsible budgeting in the 2013-14 school year. Don’t be fooled; many people would like to take credit for the tax reduction; however… in reality… it is the remarkable work of our business administrator Mr. George Stokinger who does not have control over ALL variables that contribute to the tax rates, but did work within the constraints of the variables to which we do have control, to bring the rates down to a much lower rate than projected from last spring. It is my hope that we can continue this positive momentum throughout our current budget season.
Our first draft of the 2015-16 proposed budget has been posted to the district website and will be reviewed by both the school board and the budget committee over the next several weeks. Important decisions will be made… all in the spirit of providing the absolute best education for our students while keeping the taxpayer in mind.
When I arrived here in the fall of 2012, one of the things that struck me the most about Timberlane was its commitment in putting kids first. I have no intention of adjusting that position… NOT TODAY… NOT TOMORROW… NOT EVER. Any decisions made regarding staffing levels, tools and resources, enrichment opportunities, and arts and athletics will be done with our children at the center of that discussion. Although input will be solicited by all stakeholders… final decisions about these items will be made in the best interests of the children and families we serve. And…I will continue to rely on the professional advice of qualified individuals in making such decisions.
This is an exciting time of the year at the Timberlane Regional School District. There are many opportunities to celebrate excellence in the classroom, in athletics and in the arts. Recently, we inducted 65 students into the National Honor Society with a beautiful ceremony at the high school. At upcoming school board meetings All Star musicians and athletes will be recognized and congratulated by the board.
And then there is one of the community’s most favorite events… “An Afternoon of Winter Performances” featuring Timberlane’s High School Band, Orchestra, Chorus and Guitar Orchestra Ensembles. This is a can’t miss event beginning at 1pm on Sunday, December 7th. It is my hope community members from all four towns will come and support some of the top high school musicians in the country as they share their talents with you; the very talents which they refined through your generous support throughout the years.
Happy Thanksgiving Timberlane!