District determined to get out of debt on its own
HANCOCK -- With a deficit of more than a million dollars, Hancock Schools are on the list of 23 districts that could be taken over by an emergency financial manager. Under Governor Snyder’s new law, the manager basically has total decision-making control. But Hancock is determined to get out of debt on its own.
The district has cut back on things like new textbooks, but they've kept the curriculum strong by incorporating technology. Students continue to exceed academic expectations, which is part of the reason that Superintendent Monica Healy says they aren't expecting any government action.
"My understanding is that the third step of the process is to have a financial manager appointed. We haven’t even heard that we’re at the first step,” said Healy. “This isn't a new situation. But we take a lot of pride in knowing that we have decreased the deficit over the past two years."
Healy credits taxpayers' support of the new middle school and some administrative restructuring with helping to cut costs. But some parents are still concerned and have heard different rumors about the district's financial troubles.
"I was afraid the kids might have to start going to Houghton Schools or get shipped to other schools of their choice, or maybe not their choice, because there's not enough money to go around," said Amy Jeffery.
"I have faith that they'll make the right choices and not cut things that would benefit the students, especially the teachers,” said Jennifer Juntti. “We've had a great experience with all of the teachers at Barkell Elementary."
Healy believes the small savings are adding up and expects the deficit will be down to a million dollars or less by the end of June.
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