PED to adopt new funding formula for public schools

New Mexico’s Public Education Department will be adopting a new public schools funding formula revolving around a ratio of used and unused school buildings and student population.

Nothing has been revealed yet regarding the possible closure of any of the school system’s facilities according to Clovis Municipal Schools Superintendent Renee Russ.

“At present, I can share with you that the Facility Master Planning committee is continuing to finalize committee recommendations that will be shared at the March 19 Board of Education meeting,” Russ wrote in an email.

Russ pointed out in her email “it would be premature to draw any definitive conclusions at this time about final decisions regarding CMS facilities.”

“We understand the interest in this topic, but it is very important that the process be allowed to unfold as intended. Our goal is to ensure transparency and thorough consideration of all factors involved in any decision affecting our schools,” Russ wrote.

Russ noted she and her staff “believe it is crucial to follow the established process and give due consideration to all viewpoints and all relevant data before making any final determinations.”

Russ outlined that following the March 19 board meeting, CMS will publicly release the key aspects of the recommended plan for managing facilities for the next five years.

“There will then be opportunity for public input along with further information gathering prior to any final decisions being made,” Russ wrote.

The meeting will be at 5:30 p.m. March 19 in the CMS administration building, 1009 N. Main St., Clovis.