TEA Budgeting Guidelines Review

Review of TEA Budgeting Guidelines January 2010

              In reviewing the TEA Budgeting Guidelines of January 2010, I learned that this tool will be essential in establishing a district’s budget. It helped me better understand the importance that budgeting plays in the planning, preparation and evaluation processes of the district’s goals. In reviewing the budgetary approaches all of the approaches provided an informative process with advantages and disadvantages. At this time the line- item approach seemed very comprehensive to me. I like things specific and detailed. Even with the advantages and disadvantages listed, our district has chosen to use this approach so everyone knows exactly who, what, where, when and how our dollars are spent. I appreciated the section on the legal requirement for the budgets.  It gave me a better understanding of all that are involved and why. The calendar and stakeholder information allowed me to see the depth and involvement that is expected and developed throughout the year.  The forms and school based budgeting guidelines sample sources were very informative.  Seeing examples of how to use this resource allowed me to better understand all the processes involved in the budget process.  This is a resource I need to read and read and read again to continue to develop a better comprehension of the budgetary process.

              The information in this recourse will be very helpful to me in developing a district budget.  I appreciate knowing there is a hands on resource that covers every aspect necessary in formulating a district’s budget.  This is my first year to deal with a budget in any way.  By utilizing each section of this resource I will be able to examine such items as budget approaches and the advantages and disadvantages of each.  I will utilize the calendar of events to better organize my time and responsibilities to be sure that all requirements are met in the necessary timeline.  I will also be sure to utilize my stakeholders in planning, preparing and evaluating our budgetary process.  With moneys being very tight this year and the next, the section of financial forecasting and grant programs will help me as well.  This topic is extremely complex; however, once I have a good working knowledge about the budgetary process, I believe it will be challenging and exciting.  I have been known to be able to “pinch” a penny.  I look forward in being able to work together with all involved in my district to help develop and implement successful goals utilizing all the budgetary tools available.