Q&A on School Budget with District’s New Chief Business Official

What brought you to Millbrae? What is your background?

I came to Millbrae to become part of an outstanding community. I feel that Millbrae strives for student excellence and I am excited about the chance to work with our outstanding superintendent, board, community and district personnel.  

My career in school business extends over an 18 year period and includes both district and county office of education experience. Prior to beginning service in public education, I worked 15 years in the private industry, in the accounting field. My most recent position was the director of fiscal services for Antioch Unified School District. I was responsible for all aspects of the district’s $140 million budget.

What is the most challenging budget issue facing Millbrae schools?

The most challenging budget issue facing our schools is finding the on-going funding needed to carry on quality programs for our students.  State funding is cut every year, year after year. The district must find ways to maintain excellence in an environment of ever diminishing funding. 

Additionally, the state cash crunch results in a hold on the revenue that schools need to operate programs. Funding totaling 39 percent of what is due will not be paid until the following year. It’s hard to pay the bills when the money does not arrive.

During these tough times, what measures would you implement to reduce costs?

Reducing costs can be as simple as using a different type of light bulb or as difficult as reviewing the programs to determine which ones are most effective for the district. I plan to review what measures have been done in the past to determine what will need to be done in the future. All expenditures need to be analyzed to ensure the district is getting the best bang for the buck. Are we getting multiple quotes for big expenditures, are we capturing all discounts available, are we being thoughtful in what we purchased, does the purchase fit the need? 

These are all questions that need to be explored each time a purchase is made. I plan an extensive review of the sources of revenue to ensure these funds are being maximized. I plan to seek input from our community, local business professionals and our valued district personnel. 

What are your visions/goals for the Millbrae School District?

My vision is to assist the entire school district staff in providing the best education for each student. I will be able to provide this assistance by ensuring the district has the finances to move toward with this vision. This means that the entire staff works together from the custodian to the superintendent and board of education to make the decisions on what will be the most effective and efficient way to provide education.