Dear Parents, Staff and Community:

            We begin the 2010 calendar year with the continuing, unfortunate speculation as to our budget stability.

             Again, we anticipate information from the State regarding the State Budget. The Governor will be presenting his analysis of the Budget shortfall which has been projected to be a deficit of 21 billion dollars including 6 billion for the balance of the current 2009-2010 school year. The Governor’s projections are scheduled to be presented Friday, January 8, 2010.

              If the Governor and Legislature address the 2009-2010 shortfall now, it will most likely have a direct impact on the current Millbrae School District budget. We would have to further review all aspects of our budget to find areas to reduce. If we have to move in this direction, we will involve our parents, staff and community.

              Even if State budget reductions are deferred, in order to lessen a serious budget impact in 2010-2011, we believe it is necessary to begin the process of reviewing our budget at this time.

               In December 2009, an analysis of our budget revealed we will begin the 2010-2011 school year with a deficit of 1.8 million dollars.

               You may recall that we had to reduce programs and services for the 2009-2010 school year. With the assistance of the Millbrae Education Foundation, federal funds and other budget adjustments, including the use of reserves, we were able to restore some of those cuts. It is doubtful we will have the opportunity to repeat these actions in 2010-2011.

               We have been, and will continue to discuss our budget at our Board meetings. You are encouraged to attend or watch our Board meetings on television. The schedule of Board meetings may be found on our website.

                 In addition, we will have staff and parent and community meetings to update everyone and gather your input and suggestions.

                 Even so, we remain convinced that with the cooperation and assistance of our parents, staff and community, we will continue to provide the best education for our students with the resources we have

 Shirley Martin, Ed.D.
 Superintendent