A recent episode of “Education Matters,” a video podcast hosted by Ray Pinney, the chief membership engagement officer at the New Jersey School Boards Association, delved into how to put together a school district budget in a time of high inflation and limited resources.
Dr. Robyn Klim, the superintendent of Lawrence Township Public Schools; and Business Administrator Thomas Eldridge highlighted how they take a collaborative approach in assembling a district budget.
During the segment, Eldridge noted that 80% of a school district’s budget is typically salary and budgets, and looking ahead always involves inspecting those components closely.
“We verify every single human being – where they are on their respective salary guide – and we plot forward their new salary and indirect compensation like health benefits right down to pension costs and Social Security,” he said.
Pinney and his guests also drilled down into how the district works with its board of education as well as how new initiatives fit into the equation when constructing a budget.
