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Readin', Writin', Runnin' In The Red

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By MICHELE SAGER, The Tampa Tribune

Published: January 19, 2008

Updated: 01/17/2008 08:33 pm

USF CAMPUS - Leaders for the USF Preschool for Creative Learning recently met to understand why the center operates in the red.

The simple answer they discovered: They spend more money than they make.

After further discussion by advisory board members, the real problem may be the school's unusual classification at the University of South Florida and the cloud of mystery surrounding its budgeting process.
Preschool director Magda Santos showed advisory board members the school's budget for the past three years. Every year, the school operated at a deficit of more than $250,000.

Santos said student tuition doesn't cover all expenses, and unexpected repairs have put a strain on the budget. Recent expenses included air conditioner repairs, technology upgrades and new library books.
Advisory board members again complained that their classification with the university should be changed. Many feel the preschool should not be classified as an auxiliary, meaning it's a for-profit business run separate from the university.

Santos said the preschool's budget goes through the College of Education and that she has no idea of her exact budget, even though she is responsible for handling expenses at the preschool.

This is partly because some of its funding comes from fees paid by University of South Florida students, and the amount changes every year based on the number of students.

Another problem is that when the preschool goes over budget, expenses are paid from the capital improvement fund. This is money normally used for physical needs of the building and expansions.

Santos said she has no idea how much is in the capital improvement fund and that money needed for the year is transferred to the preschool by the College of Education. Advisory board members expressed frustration that they don't have a firm grasp on money coming into the school.

Leaders said they are increasing tuition next year by 7 percent, but that won't make up for a lack of substantial increases needed in past years. Santos said the preschool faces the challenge of taking in enough money to run the program but keeping it affordable for those it serves, which are mostly the families of college students.

The preschool also wants to maintain its connection to education research with the university, Santos said.

She said she is working to decrease the deficit through staggered spending, more marketing and creating additional sources for funding. Advisory board members decided to craft a list of critical issues they want to tackle that are facing the preschool.

The board will meet again Feb. 29.

Reporter Michele Sager can be reached at (813) 865-4843 or msager@tampatrib.com.

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