Why can't U-46 keep finances in order?

We know that Elgin Area School District U-46 is in financial trouble again; a $53.5 million deficit was predicted by June. This is the third time that finances have gotten out of balance in the district. Due to deficits, 600 teachers were dismissed in May of 2003 and 350 were laid off in 2009. In each case, the focus was to get back on sound financial ground, not on education.

This time, the board of education seemed wiser by starting with making cuts in spending that wouldn't affect classroom education; they decided to eliminate B teams at the middle school level and to drain the swimming pools at the high schools; they were able to cut $5 million from the deficit. Other good ideas for cutting the deficit have been made, but the board clearly isn't confident that it can make enough cuts that don't affect classrooms; a report was made that a reduction in force has already been scheduled for March 15.

Each time the number of teachers is reduced, the quality of education in U-46 is reduced because class sizes are increased and some services are eliminated. Achievement scores plummet as a result.

If another big reduction is made this year, it will be like the third strike and out - not out of business, but one that will so damage the reputation of U-46 that this district will be out of consideration for parents with children looking for a home in the Northwest suburbs.

U-46 had a good reputation until 2003. Why can't the administration and school board keep track of spending before big deficits occur with the accompanying loss of teachers that negatively impact the children? A well operated business keeps its finances balanced; U-46 should be able to do so, too.

Donald B. Abbs

Elgin