Gov. Jennifer Granholm promised financial incentives to school districts that consolidate services.
That’s already a priority for Clarkston Community School, said Dr. Al Roberts, superintendent.
Clarkston is working with Oakland Intermediate School District and Oakland County Superintendents Association to share expenses in transportation, business, human resources, training, and technology, he said.
‘It’s becoming increasingly important given the fiscal and political situation,? Roberts said.
Countywide programs include bus-driver training, purchase of school supplies, and professional training for teachers, administrators, and school board members.
More extensive consolidation efforts would have to be considered carefully. In any consolidation effort, districts must balance savings against loss of local control, he said.
‘If you save $30,000 but 20 high school students drop out, is that a good investment? If you save $100,000 but lose the confidence and support of the community as a result, is that a wise decision,? he asked.
Considering consolidation of entire districts, Clarkston is too large, he said.
Clarkston district includes most of Independence and Springfield townships, and parts of White Lake and Waterford townships.
‘There are districts that are so small that there is no chance they can benefit from economies of scale,? Roberts said. ‘They can’t offer a complete curriculum.?
The Oakland County Superintendents Association, this year led by President Steven A. Gaynor, superintendent of Bloomfield Hills Schools, includes all 28 school districts in the county, plus the ISD.