What are core components of a school budget as a financial plan?

• A. Budget should be kept secret.
• B. Focus solely on technology purchases.
• C. Revenue projections, expenditure categories, staffing costs, capital, contingency reserves, and alignment to goals.
• D. Only total expenditures.

Answer: (C)

A school budget is a financial plan that links expected funds to specific actions and goals for the coming period. It includes revenue projections from sources like state funding, local taxes, grants, and other income. Expenditure categories organize spending into areas such as instruction, student services, administration, transportation, and operations. Staffing costs account for salaries, benefits, and payroll taxes for teachers and support staff. Capital spending covers long-term investments like facilities, technology, and equipment. Contingency reserves provide a cushion for unexpected costs or revenue shortfalls. And it is aligned to the district’s or school’s goals, ensuring that funding supports priorities in the strategic plan.

Secrecy undermines accountability, which is not appropriate for a budget. Focusing only on technology misses many other essential needs and categories. Looking only at total expenditures hides how resources are allocated and whether priorities are being met. Omitting reserves or alignment leaves you unprepared for surprises and out of touch with the school’s objectives.