The School Board and UIL Constitution & Contest Rules . . .an Editorial

The Statement of Purpose of the University Interscholastic League sponsored competition caught my eye. Regarding this, Lipan School soundly harmonizes with the UIL Constitution goals.

But, is there room for improvement to promote excellence measured in UIL competition of all kinds? Where? How?

The solution rarely can be found in spending money . . . not yet, anyway. The audited 8/31/05 general fund balance of the school district was vastly improved at $264,346. Can you spell V-A-S-T-L-Y!

The Unrestricted Fund Balance is the resource enabling sound management and creative planning.

However, this was still an unacceptable 44% of the needed fund balance target of $591,009 (see Exh J-2 of the audit). I know the board members intend to continue improving these numbers. However, shouldn't the Board resolve to adopt (i.e. budget) hard targets to measure their progress, perhaps by $110,000 each year through 8/31/08. Let's call it the Board continuing to do 110 % as in the recent past. In just 2 1/2 short years, the Unrestricted General Fund Balance would be . . . (drum roll, please) . . . $594,000! That way, the town would have a school with the financial muscle to jump over the next big problem without there being a dire community crisis which hobbles the childrens' education!

As the Board drafts its stewardship goals for the District and its children, none could be greater than this.

With patience, disciplined teamwork and clear targets, the School Board can provide the budget platform for continuing to nurture the excellent educational accomplishments that we all desire. And, to keep their winning streak alive! (And guess what . . . in 2 1/2 years the new Barnett Shale tax base is expected [not promised] to have arrived! Furthermore, guess what . . . Seth Riddle, Derek Brabson & Company are seniors . . . just to name a few!)

P.S. As of the 5:00 pm filing deadline (3/13/06) School Board incumbents Richard Ator and John Cooper are unopposed for their board seats. Since the school is "Job One" in Lipan, clearly this is a LOUD vote of confidence regarding their service to the community.