This is an FYI to keep you updated on work being done around the budget shortfall:

The district and SKACE (Salem-Keizer Association of Classified Employees) interest-based problem solving teams have worked toward resolving the district's budget shortfall for the 2009-2010 school year, through discussion of common interests:

• Minimum impact on student achievement
• Preserving jobs for our employees
• Honoring our group relationships and promoting trust
• Least amount of impact on employee insurance and retirement
• Sharing the financial burden across the employee group
• Maintaining the level of service in the district

The teams reached a tentative agreement that will be shared with the SKACE membership and the district next week.

Also - put May 27 on your calendar. Superintendent Sandy Husk will present the proposed budget for the 2009-10 school year at an evening meeting with the Budget Committee. We'll send out a formal notice of the meeting next week.