The Superintendent is ultimately responsible for the district’s budget. My superintendent, Dr. Pauline Hargrove, takes a very “hands on” approach to budgeting. Although the district has very competent people working with the finances, Dr. Hargrove wants to know and be able to explain the budget to stakeholders. Beginning in March, the Assistant Superintendent, who is the Business Manager, meets with the Dr. Hargrove to discuss the budgeting plan. Then, the Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent, and Curriculum Directors meet with the campus principals to discuss staffing needs, and the Superintendent participates in facility walkthroughs with the maintenance director to determine facility needs.
Once salary and pay rate options are developed, the Assistant Superintendent meets with the Superintendent to present and discuss these options. Before salary and pay rate schedules are adopted, the Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent meet with the Board to discuss the options and answer any questions. In May, the Superintendent reviews budget requests with the Assistant Superintendent.
Throughout the budget planning and adoption process, Dr. Hargrove is sure to remain informed about each step. I think it is important for the Superintendent to know her district’s budget. As the person who is chiefly responsible for the budget, she must make it her practice to ask questions, be informed, and be able to answer questions when asked by the public. I have learned many admirable qualities by observing Dr. Hargrove, and this one is no different. I understand and appreciate the importance of taking a “hands on” approach to budgeting.
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