TEA Budgeting Guidelines

     The TEA Budgeting Guidelines are extremely helpful to those of us who are new to school finance.  Although it is an overwhelming amount of information, I find that the more I read, the better I begin to wrap my mind around the process.  It provides many tables, charts and other exhibits that are excellent resources for new superintendents. 

     One of the things I found most interesting in the resource guides was the list of budgetary approaches.  It never occurred to me that there are multiple ways to approach budgetary planning.  I found it interesting to read about the advantages and disadvantages of each approach.  It seems that the best approach would be a hybrid:   finding the most effective combination of methods to meet your specific district’s needs. 

     Another thing that stood out to me was the emphasis of timelines and deadlines for complying with state and federal law.  Superintendents must familiarize themselves with these guidelines and create budget calendars to ensure that each person involved in the budgeting process is aware of their responsibilities and deadlines.  Exhibit 3 on page 32 was very helpful in learning the budgetary roles and responsibilities.

     Section 2.11 on Financial Forecasting was also very interesting.  It provides multiple methods for estimating expenditure projections. Learning about these methods will help a superintendent choose the best method, or combination of methods, to suit his/her district.  This section also emphasizes the importance of knowing where your district has been, where your district is, and where your district is going.  Using past and present data to make projections about revenue and expenditures proves very effective.  Another critical component to projecting expenditures is to be familiar with state mandates and legislation for the coming year.  Many times new mandates come with new expenditures.  Failure to stay up to date in this area could result in a budget crisis.  

     Overall, I found this guide to be extremely helpful.  I have no doubt it is a commonly used resource for both new and veteran superintendents.