Board of Education President Reacts to County Executive's Budget Recommendation

March 15, 2011

Montgomery County Board of Education President Christopher S. Barclay expressed disappointment in the Fiscal Year 2012 operating budget recommended by Montgomery County Executive Isiah “Ike” Leggett today (March 15). But, Barclay said he and the entire Board stand ready to work with the County Council.

Mr. Leggett’s budget cut more than $82 million from the Board of Education’s request, meaning the district will have to absorb an estimated 3,300 extra students with no additional funding.
Mr. Leggett’s budget does not meet the state-mandated maintenance of effort (MOE) level, which requires the county to provide the same per-student funding from year to year. By not meeting MOE, a state penalty of $22 million or more may be levied against MCPS.

“We are disappointed that the County Executive’s recommended budget does not meet the state-required minimum funding level for our schools. The budget, as proposed by the County Executive, will lead to higher class sizes, staff cuts and other reductions that will affect every classroom in Montgomery County Public Schools.”

“We certainly recognize that these are very difficult economic times and we are committed to working with the County Council on a responsible budget that considers the fiscal needs of the county but fulfills our moral and legal obligation to provide all students with an excellent education.”

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