Bowling Green, Kentucky, July 31, 2025
News Summary
The Bowling Green Independent School District has reported a $486,000 surplus for the previous school year, achieved through meticulous budgeting and increased revenue. The Director of Finance presented results showing a slight expenditure discrepancy, while Superintendent Fields noted the funds could lead to staff raises and new curriculum initiatives. The district’s financial standing has improved significantly from a $1.4 million deficit, aided by a 7% increase in state funding. Meanwhile, Bowling Green City Schools may face severe budget cuts if a proposed tax fails in May.
Bowling Green, Kentucky – The Bowling Green Independent School District (BGISD) has announced a significant financial achievement, reporting a $486,000 surplus for the previous school year. This surplus is attributed to the district’s meticulous budgeting strategies, which ensured that actual revenue and expenditures closely matched the planned budget.
During a recent meeting, the Director of Finance, Shaunna Cornwell, presented the unaudited financial findings to the Board of Education. The audit results indicated a variance of approximately 4%, primarily due to the timing of various capital projects. Overall, BGISD’s expenditure discrepancy stood at a minimal 0.34%, which means the district spent 100.34% of the budgeted amount.
Revenue generation surpassed expectations, reaching 105% of the anticipated figures. Superintendent Gary Fields remarked that this accurate budgeting will enable the district to make more strategic financial decisions moving forward, including potential raises for staff and the introduction of new curriculum initiatives. The recently achieved surplus marks a substantial improvement from the $1.4 million deficit that the district faced at the beginning of the school year.
The district benefited from a 7% increase in state funding from Support Education Excellence in Kentucky, a boost made possible by higher average daily attendance figures. Additionally, BGISD reported generating approximately $900,000 in interest income from its investments, further enhancing its financial standing.
Looking ahead, an anticipated transfer of about $3 million from the Capital Fund to the General Fund may further strengthen the district’s operating budget. Currently, BGISD maintains a minimum fund balance reserve of $8 million to cover emergencies. These reserve funds are being used to support positions that are currently locked out of federal funding.
The staffing situation within the district is largely stable, with the certified teacher team nearly fully staffed. There is only one English-learner position left to fill before the school year commences, although a few instructional assistant roles remain unfilled, which is common for this time of year.
Academic achievements also highlight BGISD’s success, with students from Bowling Green High School (BGHS) achieving a 74% pass rate on AP College Board exams. This accomplishment is notable, given that students took a total of 718 exams, earning a combined 1,886 college credit hours. Additionally, 354 BGHS students participated in dual credit courses, further affirming the educational opportunities available through local colleges.
In contrast, the Bowling Green City Schools board of education is facing potential financial strain, considering $2.6 million in budget cuts if a proposed 0.75% income tax request fails in May. The potential budget cuts would affect various aspects of the school district, including athletics, mental health support programs, gifted education initiatives, and staff positions. If the request is denied, further cuts could total approximately $5 million for the next school year. Board members and Superintendent Haselman emphasized the critical need for community support and funding to maintain essential educational services.
Background Information
Bowling Green Independent School District has made concerted efforts in recent years to streamline its budgeting processes. This focus on precise financial planning has contributed to the recent surplus, showcasing a successful model for educators and administrators. Meanwhile, related institutions face challenges that require urgent attention and community engagement to secure the future of educational services.
FAQs
What is the reported surplus amount for BGISD?
The reported surplus for Bowling Green Independent School District is $486,000 for the previous school year.
What contributes to the district’s financial surplus?
The surplus can be attributed to precise budgeting strategies, increased revenue from state funding, and income generated from district investments.
How does the surplus impact the district’s future financial decisions?
The surplus allows BGISD to make more strategic financial decisions, including potential raises for staff and enhancements to curriculum initiatives.
What happens if the proposed income tax does not pass?
If the 0.75% income tax request fails, the Bowling Green City Schools may face $2.6 million in budget cuts affecting key programs and services.
Key Features Summary
| Key Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Surplus Amount | $486,000 |
| Expenditure Discrepancy | 0.34% |
| Revenue Exceeded | 105% of anticipated revenue |
| State Funding Increase | 7% due to attendance growth |
| Upcoming Budget Cuts | Potential $2.6 million if tax request fails |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Bowling Green Town Hall Discusses Kentucky’s Education Future
Bowling Green Schools Anticipate Budget Surplus for 2025
Additional Resources
- BG Daily News: Precise Budgeting Found in City Schools Review
- Wikipedia: Bowling Green, Kentucky
- Sentinel-Tribune: BG Proposes $2.6 Million in Cuts if May Levy Fails
- Google Search: Bowling Green Independent School District
- BG Falcon Media: BGCS Face Funding Challenges
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER
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