District updates process for large PTA donations and outlines staffing-displacement timing

District finance and grants staff reported that the district updated its website and communicated a template and timeline to principals for donations and PTA solicitations over $250,000 that would need board review.

Curt Edelman, assistant superintendent for finance, said principals were given a template and that the first opportunity to bring such items to the board would be the April 22 meeting if principals submit by March 31; staff said they could accommodate alternate timelines if needed.

Directors raised operational questions about how those donations would flow into the budget and whether PTA funds had been treated differently in past practice. Director Rankin urged that any grants or large donations be reflected in the district budget and be transparent to the board.

Directors also asked about the timing of budget and staffing decisions in relation to potential displacements. Dr. Pritchett, the district HR official, told the board that budget and staffing arenas finish next week and explained that May 15 is the deadline for notifying staff if the district plans a nonrenewal tied to a reduction in force. She noted the district uses phased hiring to prioritize displaced employees and that displaced staff have a right to return to positions if funding later allows.

Superintendent Scholdner and staff said the district has tried to move quickly to clarify the process and that the board would have final action on any donation over the stated threshold.