EADM 6625 Chapters 5-7

What is considered the most important document for a California school district or county superintendent of schools?

• The annual budget

• The school calendar

• The student handbook

• The district's mission statement

Answer explanation

The annual budget is crucial for a California school district or county superintendent as it outlines funding priorities, resource allocation, and financial planning, making it the most important document for effective school management.

What is a basic assumption for every district or school regarding the budget?

• It is a fixed document

• It is a spending plan

• It is a savings account

• It is a legal contract

Answer explanation

The correct choice, 'It is a spending plan', reflects the fundamental nature of a budget in schools and districts, as it outlines how resources will be allocated to meet educational goals rather than being a fixed or legal document.

What must school leaders develop before creating the budget?

• A list of potential donors

• Short- and long-range goals and priorities

• A new curriculum

• A marketing strategy

Answer explanation

Before creating a budget, school leaders must establish short- and long-range goals and priorities. This ensures that the budget aligns with the school's vision and strategic direction.

What is one of the critical decisions that impact the budget each year?

• Choosing school mascots

• Deciding on school colors

• Whether to hire or replace staff

• Planning school events

Answer explanation

One of the critical decisions impacting the budget each year is whether to hire or replace staff. This choice directly affects salary expenses and overall financial planning for the school.

When does California start its fiscal year?

• January

• July

• September

• April

Answer explanation

California's fiscal year starts on July 1 and ends on June 30 of the following year. Therefore, the correct answer is July.

Which states have a fiscal year starting in October and ending in September?

• New York and Texas

• Alabama and Michigan

• California and Rhode Island

• Arkansas and New York

Answer explanation

Alabama and Michigan are the states with a fiscal year that starts in October and ends in September. Other options do not match this fiscal year structure.

What was the significant change made by Proposition 25 in California?

• Changed the fiscal year start date

• Required a two-thirds vote for budget approval

• Changed the two-thirds vote requirement to a simple majority

• Introduced a biennial budget cycle

Answer explanation

Proposition 25 in California changed the budget approval process by allowing a simple majority vote instead of the previous two-thirds requirement, making it easier for the legislature to pass the budget.

What happens if California state legislators do not approve the budget by June 15th?

• They receive a bonus

• They forfeit their pay

• The budget is automatically approved

• The fiscal year is extended

Answer explanation

If California state legislators do not approve the budget by June 15th, they forfeit their pay. This rule is in place to encourage timely budget approval and ensure accountability among lawmakers.

What is the purpose of the district budget adoption calendar?

• To outline the school year schedule

• To detail dates for budget actions and reductions

• To plan extracurricular activities

• To set holiday dates

Answer explanation

The district budget adoption calendar is designed to detail dates for budget actions and reductions, ensuring that all financial decisions are made in a timely manner.

By what date must the school district develop budget guidelines for the next fiscal year?

• March 15

• April 1

• February

• May 1

Answer explanation

The school district must develop budget guidelines by February for the next fiscal year, ensuring timely planning and compliance with regulations.