The Peru Gazette

Peru Central School District and Peru Central’s budget advisory committee is hosting a public forum at 6 PM this coming Monday, January 24th at 6 PM in the community room, adjacent to the main entrance of Peru High School.

Monday’s 6 PM public forum will actively engage district residents by soliciting ideas and perceptions regarding school finances, cost reductions, forecasted budget factors for constructing next school year’s proposed budget plan. The intent is to help Peru Central respond thoughtfully to the fiscal challenges facing New York State. This public forum is the first in a series of three winter 2011 public forums at Peru Central focused on school budget factors. Individuals who participate Monday will receive a briefing packet.

One year ago, Peru Central employees and district residents generated nearly one hundred suggestions to  reduce costs, operate even more efficiently and streamline programs, while maintaining strong instructional programs for students. Many of those suggestions were put into practice this school year, either fully or in part.

Monday’s public forum will start with distribution and discussion of pertinent facts. Next, district residents who attend will engage in small group discussions focused on fiscal challenges ahead and how to best respond to those challenges. The last segment of Monday’s public forum will feature a brief stakeholder survey, intended to generate ideas for Peru Central to continue reducing costs while maintaining strong programs, according to A. Paul Scott, Peru Central Superintendent of Schools.