{"type":"rich","version":"1.0","provider_name":"Transistor","provider_url":"https://transistor.fm","author_name":"KMAS Radio","title":"January 2025 - Shelton Schools Superintendent Wyeth Jessee","html":"","width":"100%","height":180,"duration":1698,"description":"Superintendent Jessee talks with Jeff Slakey about the budget and a variety of issues1. Budget Challenges and Rising Costs (0:00 - 7:16)I sat down with Shelton Schools Superintendent Wyeth Jessee and the first topic was the financial pressures the Shelton School District is facing. Operating costs, like utilities, payroll, and maintenance, have increased significantly, but state funding hasn’t kept pace. He broke down how the district is dealing with deficits in areas like special education, transportation, and substitute teachers. Inflation has only made these gaps wider, and it’s not just a Shelton problem—districts across the state are feeling the same strain. Wyeth emphasized that the district has tried to get ahead by making cuts early, but the challenges are still overwhelming. 2. Advocacy and Unfunded Mandates (7:17 - 13:01)We also talked about the mandates that come from the state and federal government. Wyeth explained how districts are required to meet specific expectations, like offering mental health services or supporting students with disabilities, but the funding doesn’t cover the costs. It’s a tough spot because these services are important, but districts end up scrambling to fill the gaps. Wyeth pointed out that while lawmakers talk about supporting education, the budgets don’t always reflect those priorities. He stressed the need for advocacy at every level to make sure schools get what they need. 3. Levy Limitations and Community Contributions (13:01 - 15:15)Wyeth and I spent some time discussing local levies and how they’re a key part of funding schools. He explained the challenges with levy caps and how communities like Shelton can’t raise as much money as wealthier areas. Even though the district is allowed to ask for a higher rate, Wyeth said they have to balance what the community can afford. He shared how this creates tough decisions for districts like Shelton, where the assessed property values just don’t generate enough revenue compared...","thumbnail_url":"https://img.transistorcdn.com/8b4aqzT8tkdH6MLi186ujKO11Bhjd2UG29GWtIKSvFE/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:400/h:400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS8yM2Nh/YzMyMmYwODliZGZh/Nzk1ZTVjNjIzOGZm/NGVkNC5wbmc.webp","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_height":300}