I remember this very well, because when the school budget was presented, the superintendent didn't even show up.
The best tool for improvement is the calendar. In order to make sound budget decisions, we must make a systematic approach; that is, develop a systems of ideas presentation and peer review. Department heads must meet ahead of time to review budgets, make realistic recommendations for improvement, and put together a plan that could then be presented to the public. In this way, the public would act as a peer reviewer of the budget. This is only proper, as the budget affects themselves and their children! In this process the questions asked should also be asked of members of the school committee and of the superintendent. As a former three- term member of the school committee, I welcomed questions from residents and felt that I should be able to either answer questions given me or refer people to the person who could best answer them. I also know that the best way to improve the budget is to do precisely what most people do not want to do - go through the budget line by line. Until those involved are willing to do that, and with dedication, we will see the same problems we have seen in past years.
