Budget Forecast for 2012-2013

APS is anticipating cutting its budget by about $5.3 million.

Funding Per Student

The state allocates money to school districts using a formula called the SEG (State Equalization Guarantee) based on student population and demographics. Last year, APS received $6,612 per student (the lowest rate in six years). We expect an increase in the SEG of about $9.9 million for 2012-2013, bringing the per student funding to $6,785. 

Pension Funds

Last year, public school employees were required to contribute more of their paycheck toward retirement. The 2012-2013 state budget increases school funding so that districts can cover those pension contributions. Employees would have more take-home pay. This amounts to about $7 million for APS.

Utilities

Utility costs including electricity and water/sewer/garbage are expected to increase by $300,000. APS pays more than a million dollars a month for utilities.

184th Day, Furloughs

In the past two years, APS eliminated a professional development day for teachers and furloughed non-school employees. Adding back that professional day and ending furloughs will cost the district $2.4 million.

Nursing Expenses

This year, APS used Medicaid funding to help pay for school nurses. If that funding source is no longer available, the district will have to add $2.5 million back into its budget for school nurses.

Teacher Salaries

Teacher salaries are expected to increase by $2 million. Though most employees aren't expected to get raises, APS is required by state law to provide salary increases to teachers who complete the requirements for moving from one tier to the next.

Textbooks

While the state provides funding for textbooks, in recent years it hasn't been enough, so APS is planning to supplement the fund by $500,000.

Other Costs

APS is anticipating property and liability insurance increases of about $200,000 and an increase to the Retiree Health Plan of $700,000.