Rochester schools Superintendent Jean-Claude Brizard presented a proposal for a $695-million budget for the 2010-2011 school year to Board members for the first time this evening [see update below]. Brizard said the district faces a $61.1 million deficit.

The budget gap would be closed, Brizard said, primarily by a reduction of 169 full-time employees, or a total 5 percent of the district's work force. The reduction will include teachers and Central Office administrative staff.

Brizard attributes most the deficit to a $32.4-million revenue loss, while nearly all of the district costs have gone up. His proposal shows a $10.4-million increase in retirement system payments, and a $13.7-million increase in salaries and benefits. 

Another concern, Brizard said, is the state's budget process. However that plays out, he said, could result in more cuts in Rochester.

Brizard made the presentation to the City School Board's Finance Committee.
Board member Van White suggested sending the budget information and a schedule of upcoming financial meetings to Mayor Bob Duffy. Duffy is vying to consolidate the city and the school district.

UPDATE

The proposed budget, the superintendent's slide presentation, and a video of the presentation to the Board is available on the district's website .

The superintendent's presentation to the Board also will be featured on the district's Students First television show on RCTV channel 15, from 5 to 6 p.m. on Monday, March 22, and 3 to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, March 23.