As I write my July column, the 2008-09 school year has ended. We are seeing more youngsters in gyms, play grounds, beaches and fast food restaurants.

The graduating high school seniors are planning their future including admission to colleges. The students looking for summer jobs are frustrated as the slow economy is not bringing new jobs.

At present, the incoming students are not thinking about the next school year, 2009-2010 which will begin on September 7, 2009.

Board News

Three longtime assistant superintendents of CUSD – Suejette Lovely, Sherine Smith and Eamonn O’Donovan – are leaving the District for similar positions in other surrounding school districts. The District has hired an interim assistant superintendent of personnel, Ms. Naomi Suenaka.

In the June 8 Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) Board meeting, the District has hired an interim Superintendent, Dr. Bobbie Mahler, an educator for 42 years, in class room teaching, as principal of schools and superintendent of school districts.

Most recently she was superintendent of embattled Westminster School District of 9,900 students.

I was scheduled to interview Ms. Mahler last week but, due to mix up in her calender, my meeting was canceled. I can see one thing: the administration in CUSD is in chaotic stage.

This is a huge District with multiple problems. One needs to wait and see how Dr. Mahler leads this district out of turmoil.

The Board is looking for a permanent superintendent and is hiring a superintendent search firm.

On June 22 Board meeting the Trustees will adopt a final budget for the 2009-2010 school year. The deficit is getting bigger and bigger, and the deficit has become a moving target.

The June 8 budget shortfall was $25 million with additional shortfall of $4.2 totaling $29.2 million. I am told today the shortfall has grown to near $30million.

The current financial situation of schools has not been traveled before. The 2010-2011 finances will be even worse. The district reserve has to be 2% of its annual budget, otherwise the district will be taken over by the state.

During the June 8 meeting about 15 residents spoke in favor of retaining the class size. But the trustees have to bite the bullet of eliminating the CSR as there is no money.

The District is also asking the unions to agree to take pay cut which is on the June 22 agenda. It is tough financial time for the school district administration and the Trustees.