Opinion - There is more to it than the Knowledge Bowl

The Knowledge Bowl program was eliminated from the Colfax School District’s budget when the advisor resigned. Ostensibly, the decision to drop the program and not replace the advisor was made to save money.

When the school board learned of the cut, it reacted by funding the program with money from other extracurricular budgets. Specifically, the Knowledge Bowl costs are to be made up by a cut in all extracurricular pay by one percent.

Understandably, those receiving pay for advisor and coach positions are unhappy. Their pay, at least at this point, has been cut.

Academic programs are generally less expensive than athletic programs. The price tag for this program is not much—only $2,000. It surely must be one of the least expensive programs at the school. And, being academically based, it is a program that belongs. The school board recognized this.

Patrons of the school district have paid their taxes, approved two major remodeling projects and loyally supported the school district’s bi-annual request for special levy funding. The levies fill the financial gaps that administrators claim exist. They pass without exception, without much difficulty and without many details.

The community has a record of strong financial commitment to the schools, not to mention the many fundraisers and donations that further support school programs.

The Knowledge Bowl problem brings to light how little is known about school expenditures and how decisions are made that may not reflect the wishes of the patrons, the public and even the board. It also brings into question how school revenues are spent.

This episode shows that there is a lot more to be known and a lot more to be considered. The need for $2,000 for a respected academic program should not precipitate such a crisis.

Gordon Forgey

Publisher