Mattituck High Super: Budget is Sinking

Facing up to 10 percent cuts in state aid,Superintendent James McKenna told members of the school board during Thursday night's meeting that the district's 2010-11 budget is about to hit some very rough waters.

"I hate to be the Grinch who stole Christmas, but our school and budget are on the Titanic — sinking," he said.

Due to a federal government budget cap, McKenna said that New York State — already in a $9 billion deficit — will lose about $664,000 dollars, leaving the state in the position to have to cut 5 to 10 percent of funding to Mattituck-Cutchogue. The trickle down effect will force McKenna and board members to consider about $500,000 in cuts. McKenna added that rising fees for Regents Exams will add to the predicted budget burden.

To compensate, McKenna said that the district might have to layoff up to 10 teachers and eliminate various academic and recreational programs. The superintendent assured the board and audience members that the school plans to maintain and exceed its level of academic excellence but has to prepare to do that under limited conditions in terms of new programs, new teachers and administrative workers.

"There will be difficult choices ahead," he said.