INFORMATIONAL LETTER:  16

 

POLICY CODE:  DB

 

TO:                  Superintendents of Schools and School Business Managers

 

FROM:            Susan A. Gendron, Commissioner of Education

 

DATE:             August 4, 2004

 

RE:                   Essential Programs and Services Funding Model

 

The new Essential Programs and Service (EPS) funding model will be phased-in beginning in the 2005-06 funding year.  The State Board of Education is working closely with David Silvernail and Walter Harris to establish the EPS components: professional development, substitute teachers, Limited English Proficiency, school leadership, instructional technology, personnel benefits, student assessments, extra- curricular and co-curricular activities and transportation.

 

It is imperative that we hear from every school district to ensure that we have updated components of EPS.  I recognize the time this request will require but hope that each of you also recognizes the importance of having current information to establish the beginning of the EPS funding model.  Please complete the Report of School Administrative Units Essential Programs and Services Expenditures for 2003-2004 by September 3, 2004.  The report is available at http://www.cepare.usm.maine.edu .  Please follow the directions as outlined.

 

Thank you for your prompt attention to this request.  The information is vital to the Department's ability to update the Essential Program and Services components and developing printouts for your budget deliberations this fall.