As a bit of history, the Conference developed from discussions and comments from area residents on the ever increasing amount of taxpayer dollars required to support the education process. With this amount doubling over 10 years and student population declining, the spending proportions were being looked at in light of academic results, asset utilization, financial management and other key issues.

The District has a total cash flow from various sources that totals almost $20 Million. 

Working with the School District, as the NECG has been doing, the examination of several important issues  has been highlighted in a recent report to the School Board and Administration by the NECG. As a comprehensive analysis, it was presented to the Board as a “matrix” for reference, planning and dialogue purposes. (This type of “white paper” approach is used in business and government).  Their willingness to accept this report indicates their interest in looking further into these matters. This clearly  reflects a most appropriate level of focus and a confirmation of their election and their commitment to represent  the voters to their full capabilities. This must be applauded.

At a recent meeting of a School Board “Planning & Dialogue Meeting”, Superintendant Marie Ross outlined a series of curriculum and operating items currently being emphasized by the District.  As she indicated, the end goal is to make our students “ready” for their future pursuits, while “easing” the financial burden of the taxpayer. Another point brought out at the meeting was the need for clear, candid and consistent communication between all interested parties.  The chairperson, Mary Campbell, announced the departure of the current Business Manager, Mr. Stuart, at the end of the current school year.

The actualizing of the goals that are being set can be accomplished only thru an integrated scholastic/financial plan, implemented thru prudent financial management of available funds; a viable curriculum; a qualified, properly compensated teaching body producing solid, acceptable student results; and an infrastructure that is appropriate to the Newfound area education needs.

The bottom line of all of this is the student. All of the “activities”, policies and procedures of the District must be comprehensively infused into the system. Joining academics with so-called “life and living skills” programs will clearly position graduates in a much improved position to meet future challenges and opportunities. To again quote the Superintendant, the goal is to make the student “college ready”, “work ready” and “life ready”.

Without reservation, the NECG is committed to being a "partner” - ready to supply whatever assist is needed. The Superintendant acknowledged the work being done by the Group, highlighting this need for cooperation.  Indeed, the NECG, as a responsible, coordinating body of constituents, offers responsible, experienced and skilled individuals, when utilized, can make a positive impact.

THE AREAS BEING STUDIED BY THE NECG INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:

ANNUAL BUDGET -  SPECIFIC LINE ITEM EXPENDITURE PROCEDURES
DEFAULT BUDGET -  ADHERENCE TO GUIDELINES
FINANCE -  STRICT MANAGEMENT AND BEST INVESTMENT OF FUNDS
HI-TECH (COMPUTER) -  EQUIPMENT AND SOFTWARE UTILIZATION
HEALTH INSURANCE -  COST AND BENEFIT ANALYSIS
BIDDING PROCEDURES -  IMPLEMENTED WITHIN ESTABLISHED POLICIES
FUTURE PLANNING -  DEVELOPMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE 5 YEAR PLAN
BUILDINGS AND EQUIPMENT -  FUTURE NEEDS AND CURRENT UTILIZATION
STATE AND FEDERAL REGULATIONS -  FULL COMPLIANCE .
ACADEMIC/FINANCIAL EQUATION -   COMPARABLE DISTRICT COMPARISONS
CURRICULUM -  APPLICABILITY TO CURRENT ENVIRONMENT
COMMUNICATIONS -  COMPLETE, TOTAL TRANSPARENCY

FROM THE ABOVE, A CURRENT FOCUS IS ON BUDGETING, COST CONTROLS, FINANCIAL REPORTING, INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT (THIS WILL OBVIOUSLY BE TIED INTO THE FUTURE SELECTION OF A NEW BUSINESS MANAGER);  OPERATION AND SCOPE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY; POLICIES AND PROCEDURES;  ACADEMIC RESULTS;  COMMUNICATIONS.     

 FOOTNOTE: ALL CONCERNED CITIZENS INTERESTED IN PARTICIPATING WITH THE NECG SHOULD CONTACT newfoundconcerns.com. THEY HAVE A RIGHT AND A DUTY TO PARTICIPATE IN THEIR GOVERNANCE.