Due to the recent announcement from Governor Brown that the mid-year cut to education funding was less than Odyssey anticipated, the Governing Board will be revising the 2011-12 school year budget at their January 24 meeting at 6pm.

Our original budget reflected anticipated cuts around $260 per student but the actual cuts were less than 10 percent of that, which resulted in $70,000 higher net income than previously anticipated.

With this news, the finance committee is recommending the board approve budget changes that would provide 8-10 week art courses for grades K-6 and funds towards a 3 day/2 night camping trip for our 7^th and 8^th grade students, which has been an Odyssey tradition. In addition, the finance committee is recommending that the board approve a one time cost of living (COLA) stipend for our hard-working teachers who have been on a salary freeze for three years.

It is important to note that all indications out of Sacramento are that the 2012-13 budget is going to be a tough one. These proposed expenditures will come out of funds received for the current school year, and will be used toward programs for the current school year.

We want to hear from you. Please join us at the OCS board meeting Tuesday, January 24 at 6 p.m. or email your thoughts or concerns to:

Rhonda Graham (5-8 Grade Parent Board Representative) kimikog@msn.comm

Elizabeth Rainey (OCS Parent Representative At-Large) rainey1915@sbcglobal.net

Jillian O'Connor (K-4 Grade Parent Board Representative) jillianbo@gmail.com

We will be happy to share your ideas with the board.

Sincerely,

Your OCS Board Parent Representatives

Rhonda

Elizabeth

Jillian