Looking back at Fiscal Year 2012, the Blue Ridge District did surprisingly well.

The district was surprised by some revenues that came in to the district last year. Superintendent of Blue Ridge Schools, Susan Wilson explains thanks to some surprise revenues, the district's education fund ended the year in the black.

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While the transportation fund is was in a deficit last year, this year the district expects that to not be the case. Wilson explains the district owns their fleet of buses, and this year they are not going to be purchasing a new bus. Many districts lease their buses from various companies, but Wilson says when it comes down to it, both cost about the same. They feel it would be a better situation for them to own theirs.

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Looking ahead to Fiscal Year 13, Wilson says the education fund will be in the red. She says a cut back in state aid will contribute to the deficit. She also notes, significant salary increases due to a number of retirements in the district will also contribute to that as well.

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The Maintenance fund is going to take a hit this year because of some unexpected maintenance to one of the school buildings. Wilson adds the district is also looking at making some planned renovations to their bus facility. She notes despite funds going to those two areas, that fund is still very healthy.

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Blue Ridge is expecting nine retirements, and of those nine retirements, Wilson says each position will not necessarily be filled. She says as the year runs its course, they will evaluate each one and decide how to best move forward. To find ways to cut back to save money, the district plans to analyze their expenses throughout the year and find areas to cut back in.