In preparing our recent communication, we relied on multiple sources of information and concluded that the New York State Education Department encouraged more immediate use of reserves. In its response to our community update, NYSED clarified that it has not issued guidance directing districts to aggressively spend down reserves. While the district recognizes that some other sources may suggest this approach, the Department emphasized that such guidance has not come from NYSED. We are providing this clarification to ensure our community has accurate information.
This does not change our direction as noted in our letter: If we continued our previous approach of stretching reserves and making incremental cuts each year, we would be forced to reduce the very programs, extracurricular activities, and opportunities that make Northville an excellent school district. By the time those in a position to help recognized our need and offered assistance, we would have already dismantled programs that took years to build.